The Lakers may finally have a realistic path toward landing Jonathan Kuminga.
According to Khobi Price of The California Post, the Hawks have interest in a potential sign-and-trade that would send Kuminga to Los Angeles in exchange for forward Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap.
Nothing is considered imminent, but it’s one of the first reported trade frameworks involving Kuminga that appears to make some sense for both teams.
The Lakers have made no secret of their interest in Kuminga, though they’re currently limited financially after using most of their cap room on Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili and Collin Sexton.
A sign-and-trade remains the clearest path toward offering Kuminga more than the veteran minimum.
Broderick Turner of the LA Times reported earlier this week that the Lakers have discussed a contract in the neighborhood of two years and $20 million, though a sign-and-trade would require at least a three-year agreement under NBA rules.
The report also indicates Los Angeles is willing to include Vanderbilt and potentially other players as it looks to upgrade the roster.
Meanwhile, the Cavaliers continue to be mentioned as a possible landing spot for Kuminga because of his relationship with coach Kenny Atkinson. But, as has been widely reported, Cleveland’s offseason remains tied to LeBron James‘ decision before making any major moves.
If the Lakers ultimately miss on Kuminga, Price writes they’ve also monitored wings such as Bruce Brown, Matisse Thybulle, Ochai Agbaji and Ziaire Williams. Dallas forward P.J. Washington has previously been linked to Los Angeles as well, though the Lakers reportedly aren’t interested in taking on the remainder of his long-term contract.
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