NBA Rumors: Hawks, Jonathan Kuminga, Cavs, Dennis Schroder, Lakers

Hawks

The Hawks’ roster may be crowded, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Jonathan Kuminga is gone for good.

According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, Atlanta hasn’t ruled out bringing Kuminga back on a one-plus-one contract despite already carrying 17 players on standard deals.

Several roster questions remain unresolved. Buddy Hield continues to be mentioned as a trade candidate, Devin Carter‘s future became less certain after the acquisition of Ryan Nembhard, and Mouhamed Gueye is expected to miss at least part of next season after undergoing foot surgery.

If one or more of those situations changes, the Hawks could find a path to keeping Kuminga after all.

Cavaliers

The Cavaliers continue to monitor Kuminga’s situation, but league sources tell Scotto that Cleveland’s primary focus remains LeBron James.

As Hoops Wire has reported, the Cavs appear reluctant to make any significant roster moves until James announces where he’ll play next season.

Should they ultimately need to create additional financial flexibility, Max Strus and Dennis Schroder continue to surface as potential trade candidates.

Scotto noted the Hornets have been linked to Schroder, with Charlotte president of basketball operations Jeff Peterson having previously worked with the veteran guard during their time together in Atlanta.

That’s all well and good, but again, everything appears to hinge on LeBron’s decision.

Lakers

If the Lakers hope to acquire Kuminga, they may have to rethink what they’re offering.

Scotto suggested L.A. could eventually find more success building a package around Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy rather than Jarred Vanderbilt.

Atlanta has shown little interest in taking on Vanderbilt’s contract, which includes guaranteed money through the 2027-28 season.

Knecht and Hardy, meanwhile, carry smaller cap hits and don’t have guaranteed salaries beyond 2026-27, making them potentially more attractive assets for a third team if a multi-team sign-and-trade were to materialize.

As Kuminga’s market continues to evolve, the Lakers may have to get creative if they hope to remain serious contenders.