Feb 26, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) brings the ball up the court against the Washington Wizards during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Feb 26, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) brings the ball up the court against the Washington Wizards during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Many of this year’s free agency and trade sagas have come to a close, but Jonathan Kuminga‘s storyline remains unfinished. While this raises concerns with training camp looming, there is some optimism that a solution may arise soon, as the Los Angeles Lakers remain in pursuit of the 23-year-old.
At this juncture, the Lakers are among the few teams still in active negotiations involving Jonathan Kuminga. Although earlier reports indicated that talks with Kuminga’s representation had halted over contract demands, it appears the forward’s team has been more willing to negotiate following Peyton Watson’s trade to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
For the most part, Los Angeles has looked like the preferred destination, with reports even revealing the initial trade framework that would help the Purple and Gold acquire the 23-year-old. However, in more recent discussions, NBC Sports’ Kurt Helin revealed that the Lakers’ package to the Atlanta Hawks has been updated, with Jaden Hardy replacing Jarred Vanderbilt as the central figure. Helin wrote:
“The Lakers and Hawks are talking sign-and-trade again, with guard Jaden Hardy reportedly in the conversation (he makes $6 million this season), while previously that was Jared Vanderbilt ($12.4 million).”
Earlier rumors suggested that the Lakers’ offer was built around packaging Jarred Vanderbilt and draft compensation for Jonathan Kuminga. While this may have been satisfactory for the Hawks, the team’s current cap situation ($3.8 million under the tax line) may not allow them to take on more salary, thus forcing both parties to rope in a third team. In this regard, replacing Vanderbilt’s $12.4 million cap hit with Jaden Hardy’s $6.0 million may be far more palatable for the Hawks.
When also factoring in Hardy’s scoring upside, having averaged 9.2 points and 1.5 rebounds per game on 42.4% shooting from the field and 39.7% from three-point range, Atlanta may see more value in acquiring him. Still, a move like this would require the Hawks to cut some players to finalize their 15-man roster.
While this route could be promising for the Lakers, it may not be in Jonathan Kuminga’s best interests, as it could lock him in for a three-year, $18-$21 million deal. So is this really the best option for the 23-year-old?
Are The Lakers The Right Fit For Jonathan Kuminga?
The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the few teams, if not the only team, that have remained interested in Jonathan Kuminga since the beginning of his free agency saga. While this highlights the franchise’s commitment, there is reason to believe the Lakers are Kuminga’s preferred destination as well.
According to Kurt Helin, the 23-year-old has shown an inclination to play for L.A., as he wrote:
“Kuminga reportedly likes the idea of playing for the Lakers, who would start him at the four, as a better fit.”
Following Los Angeles’ massive roster overhaul this summer, insiders noted that the team’s next priority was solidifying its wing depth. Although the additions of Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle were promising, it was evident that the Purple and Gold were eyeing a starting-caliber forward.
In many ways, Jonathan Kuminga seemed to fit the profile. Along with his phenomenal physical tools and athleticism, Kuminga possesses notable shot-creation skills and has the potential to be a solid wing defender, too. With expectations that he could play an Aaron Gordon-type role for the Lakers, there was every reason to believe he could be the right fit.
So what is the issue?
While there is no denying Jonathan Kuminga’s talent, having averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game last season, doubts about his motivation to play such a role cannot be ignored.
Given his desire for a larger offensive role, it is difficult to see him embracing a role as a third-option scorer on the Lakers with greater defensive responsibilities. When also factoring in the sizable dip in salary that would follow such a move, the 23-year-old may be even more dissuaded.
In theory, Jonathan Kuminga possesses the necessary traits to be an impactful piece in the Lakers’ rotation. Given his versatility and championship pedigree, he may be exactly what the Purple and Gold need to be viewed as a genuine threat in the Western Conference. However, if the gap in expectations is not managed appropriately, such a move could backfire almost immediately, leaving both parties in a relatively unfavorable situation.