One realistic target being discussed is unrestricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. However, any pursuit would likely require engaging with the Atlanta Hawks, as Kuminga’s contract situation complicates a straightforward acquisition. A potential path for the Lakers is a sign-and-trade with Atlanta. In such a scenario, the team could send a combination of players and picks to create the necessary cap space and satisfy both clubs’ interests.
Kuminga, who is 23, recently completed a two-year, $46.8 million contract with Atlanta, a deal that included a team option the Hawks declined. Since Kuminga’s deal expired, he would be eligible for a sign-and-trade, a route that would allow the Lakers to maneuver around salary constraints while adding a valuable young wing to their rotation. The proposed trade packages circulating in reports involve players such as Dalton Knecht, Jake LaRavia, Jarred Vanderbilt, and one or more of the Hawks’ second-round picks. These assets would help bridge salaries for the trade and provide Atlanta with additional cap relief and future flexibility.
Competition for Kuminga’s services is expected to come from other teams, including the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs may be weighing a potential reunion with LeBron James, a factor that could influence their decision-making. If James’s destination becomes clear, it could quicken how seriously Cleveland pursues Kuminga or pivots to other wing options.
From the Lakers’ side, the goal would be to clear space to fit Kuminga into the roster while maintaining enough flexibility to add more pieces as the offseason unfolds. At present, the Lakers have 15 players under standard contract, the maximum allowed, leaving little room for significant additions without roster movement. Signing Kuminga could require trades or other moves to open a roster spot and manage the overall tax and cap implications.
If the Lakers proceed with a sign-and-trade for Kuminga, they would gain Kuminga’s Bird rights, which could allow them to offer a contract that doesn’t immediately impact their cap space. This constraint makes the move more feasible from a financial perspective, even if the price is steep in terms of assets.
As a player, Kuminga brings height, athleticism, and untapped potential. At 6-foot-7, he fits well in a modern, spaced-out offense alongside Doncic and other talented wings. Kuminga has shown flashes of high ceiling during his time with Golden State and Atlanta, though opportunities for him to become a high-minute starter have been limited in recent seasons. A stable role in a strong system could unlock his potential and provide the Lakers with a versatile two-way wing.
In terms of fit, Kuminga could potentially slide into a starting small forward role, allowing Quentin Grimes to contribute off the bench or in a complementary lineup. His experience with a championship-winning system could also bring valuable mindset and defensive versatility to the Lakers’ rotation. While he may not be regarded as a blockbuster star, Kuminga’s size, athleticism, and potential upside make him an intriguing option for a team aiming to contend.
Overall, Kuminga represents a compelling (though potentially costly) option for the Lakers as they look to fortify wing depth and balance the roster around Doncic. If the team can execute a sign-and-trade that satisfies both sides and clears enough space for contributions elsewhere, Kuminga could become a key piece in the Lakers’ championship pursuit. As the offseason progresses, the Lakers’ approach—whether through trades, signings, or strategic cap management—will determine how aggressively they pursue Kuminga and other wing options.
