NBA Rumors: Lakers, Jonathan Kuminga, Hawks, Peyton Watson, Nuggets

Lakers

The Lakers remain in pursuit of free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, but completing a sign-and-trade with the Hawks may not be as simple as initially believed.

According to Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Atlanta has been resistant to a proposed package centered around Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap. That differs from earlier reporting that suggested the framework had gained traction.

Fischer added that Kuminga is seeking more than the reported two-year, $20 million offer the Lakers have explored. One possibility is a multi-team trade that would send Vanderbilt to a third club, giving Los Angeles more flexibility to increase its offer.

If Kuminga leaves Atlanta, league sources continue to believe it will happen via sign-and-trade, requiring at least a three-year contract. Only the first season would need to be fully guaranteed.

The Cavaliers continue to be mentioned as a potential suitor because of Kuminga’s ties to coach Kenny Atkinson, though Cleveland’s offseason plans remain tied to LeBron James‘ looming free-agency decision.

Hawks

The Hawks are also among the teams showing interest in Nuggets restricted free agent Peyton Watson, according to Fischer.

But landing Watson won’t be easy.

Denver is reportedly seeking a return similar to what the Jazz received from the Lakers in the Walker Kessler sign-and-trade — two first-round picks and two first-round swaps — while also avoiding taking back salary.

The Clippers have also been linked to Watson, though Fischer wrote both Los Angeles and Atlanta have balked at Denver’s current asking price. If that doesn’t change, the Clippers are expected to turn their attention toward re-signing restricted free agent Bennedict Mathurin.

Nuggets

Restricted free agent Spencer Jones acknowledged this week that he’s hearing from teams around the league.

In a video posted to social media, Jones said he’s “currently fielding offers” and admitted any trip to Denver’s practice facility could be his last as negotiations continue.

According to Darren Wolfson of SKOR North, the Timberwolves have checked in on Jones, though Minnesota isn’t believed to have a realistic path toward signing him because of its salary-cap situation.

MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position