Lakers in bidding war with Western Conference contender for ex-Warriors champion Jonathan Kuminga image
The Los Angeles Lakers have been trying to wrap up their offseason for the past several weeks by acquiring Jonathan Kuminga, but they have yet to get a deal across the finish line. Negotiations have been complicated, with both Kuminga and the Atlanta Hawks making the process difficult.
The Lakers are attempting to complete a sign-and-trade, but there are multiple obstacles. The Hawks are already over the roster limit, and Kuminga has been seeking a significant contract.
“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.
Los Angeles has been viewed as one of the favorites to land Kuminga from the start of free agency. On Friday, it was reported that the Lakers officially made an offer for the young forward.
“The Lakers have offered Jonathan Kuminga a contract via sign-and-trade that would pay him around $45 million. Los Angeles is willing to send Jarred Vanderbilt alongside draft capital to the Hawks for Kuminga, who must sign at least a three-year deal in sign-and-trade agreements,” Sidery wrote.
While momentum appears to be building in the Lakers' favor, the process is far from over. The Minnesota Timberwolves have now entered the race for Kuminga.
“After missing out on their pursuit of LeBron James, the Minnesota Timberwolves have also expressed interest in Kuminga with their starting power forward spot up for grabs and their $6.06 million taxpayer mid-level exception available for the taking, league sources told HoopsHype,” HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto wrote.
The Timberwolves present an intriguing alternative because they could potentially sign Kuminga outright using their available exception. That would eliminate the need for a sign-and-trade if he ultimately chooses Minnesota.
Just when it appears the Lakers are gaining ground, another team has emerged in the pursuit. Minnesota is a situation worth monitoring, as the Timberwolves offer a strong starting lineup and could give Kuminga the opportunity to play power forward instead of small forward.
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