The Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers have reportedly emerged as the only teams currently showing serious interest in Jonathan Kuminga.
Speaking on the Clutch Scoops podcast, ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel said he expects the 23-year-old forward to end up in Los Angeles, although no agreement has been reached.
"There's two teams [interested] right now," Siegel said. "It's the Cavs and the Lakers. I personally believe he will end up with the Lakers."
Kuminga remains unsigned and is reportedly prepared to extend his wait until he receives an acceptable offer.
"He's willing to hold out as long as possible," Siegel added. "He wants somewhere in that sweet spot of $14-16 million."
Lakers viewed as likely Jonathan Kuminga destination
Los Angeles has consistently been linked with the former Golden State Warriors forward throughout free agency.
The Lakers can offer Kuminga a starting role on a roster built around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
The organization has been searching for an athletic forward capable of defending multiple positions, attacking the basket and contributing without requiring the ball on every possession.
However, the sides have yet to agree on Kuminga's salary, contract length or potential role.
Previous reporting indicated that Los Angeles had discussed a short-term offer, but Kuminga's camp was seeking a more lucrative agreement.
Kuminga prepared to wait for desired contract
Kuminga's willingness to hold out adds another element to one of the offseason's longest-running free-agency situations.
The Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option for the 2026-27 season, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent.
Siegel's reported $14-16 million range would represent a significant reduction from the salary Kuminga would have received had Atlanta exercised the option.
The forward could nevertheless prioritize playing time, organizational fit and future earning potential when selecting his next team.
A shorter contract could allow him to return to free agency after rebuilding his value.
Kuminga searching for larger role after Hawks stint
Kuminga spent the first four and a half seasons of his career with Golden State before being traded to Atlanta in February 2026.
The former No. 7 overall pick averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists during the 2025-26 season. He also helped the Warriors win the NBA championship as a rookie in 2022.
Kuminga showed flashes of his scoring ability during Atlanta's first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks, including performances of 19 and 21 points in consecutive games.