Full Breakdown
Lakers’ Pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga Faces New Hurdles
7/31/2026, 12:38:59 PM
Intensified Competition for the 23-Year-Old Wing
The Los Angeles Lakers have identified Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga as a priority acquisition this offseason, envisioning him as a potential starter alongside Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves and Walker Kessler. Sources report that Kuminga is seeking an annual salary in the $15-20 million range, a figure the Lakers may be reluctant to meet without a sign-and-trade. Chris Fedor of Cleveland.com has highlighted that the Hawks’ contract situation and luxury-tax proximity have opened the door for additional suitors, including the Los Angeles Clippers and Milwaukee Bucks, thereby complicating the Lakers’ path to the player.
Roster Overhaul and Salary Constraints
During the current offseason the Lakers have added seven new players, most prominently center Walker Kessler via a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz. With 16 players already under guaranteed contracts, the franchise must trim the roster to 15 by opening night in October. The team’s limited trade assets—most notably veteran forward Jarred Vanderbilt, who is the name most linked to a potential deal—have not attracted interest from Atlanta, further narrowing the Lakers’ options.
Frontcourt Depth Remains a Concern
Beyond the Kuminga pursuit, the Lakers are evaluating ways to bolster depth at the center position. Kessler and Kevon Looney combined for only 26 games last season, leaving the frontcourt thin heading into the 2026-27 campaign. Analysts have mentioned free-agent center Nick Richards and a possible trade for Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith as viable candidates, though their suitability remains uncertain as the summer progresses.
Outlook for the Offseason
If Kuminga ultimately chooses Los Angeles, the Lakers could secure a starter who complements their existing core. However, the combination of his salary expectations, the need for a sign-and-trade, and competing interest from multiple teams creates a “sweepstakes” scenario that may force the Lakers to explore alternative roster moves, particularly at the center spot, before the league’s free-agency period begins.
