The Los Angeles Lakers are reportedly giving serious consideration to signing Jonathan Kuminga after the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option, making the 23-year-old forward an unrestricted free agent. League insiders say Kuminga has become one of the Lakers’ primary targets as they look to improve their wing depth and perimeter defense ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season.
According to multiple reports, the Lakers have admired Kuminga’s potential for some time and are revisiting their interest now that he is available on the open market. The franchise believes his athleticism, defensive versatility, and ability to play multiple frontcourt positions would make him a strong fit alongside Luka Dončić, who has become the centerpiece of the team’s roster following LeBron James’ departure.
Kuminga entered free agency after Atlanta decided not to exercise his team option despite acquiring him from the Golden State Warriors at the 2026 trade deadline. During his brief stint with the Hawks, he averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 16 regular-season games and also contributed 13.7 points per game in the playoffs, showing flashes of the two-way potential that made him the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft.
The Lakers’ interest comes as the front office continues reshaping the roster. Reports indicate the organization is prioritizing a young, athletic wing rather than bringing back veteran forward Rui Hachimura, with Kuminga viewed as the preferred option because of his defensive upside and long-term potential. However, creating enough salary-cap flexibility remains one of the biggest challenges to completing a deal.
Los Angeles is not alone in pursuing Kuminga. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and even the Atlanta Hawks remain interested in signing him, setting up what could become one of the more competitive free-agent battles of the offseason.
While no agreement has been reached, the Lakers are expected to remain active in discussions. If they can clear the necessary cap space, Jonathan Kuminga could emerge as one of their most significant additions of the summer and provide the athletic wing presence the team has been seeking.
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