The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for the 2026-27 NBA season and putting the finishing touches on the roster. Indications point to the process concluding with the acquisition of Jonathan Kuminga, as Los Angeles and the Atlanta Hawks remain engaged in active trade negotiations.
According to BasketballTalk, the Lakers and Hawks are in active discussions on a sign-and-trade that would send Jaden Hardy to Atlanta and Kuminga to Los Angeles, with an agreement virtually completed.
The battle for Kuminga has seemingly come down to the Lakers and the Minnesota Timberwolves, offering two intriguing fits with different situations regarding what each franchise can offer. Miami Heat were previously in the mix, but landing Kuminga became impossible for the squad following the arrival of Klay Thompson.
Jonathan Kuminga views Lakers as ‘better fit’ over Timberwolves
According to Kurt Helin of NBC Sports, Kuminga likes the fit with the Lakers, as he would get the opportunity to start right out of the gate at power forward alongside Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves.
Jonathan Kuminga during an Atlanta Hawks match.
Kuminga reportedly favors playing for the Lakers as a better overall fit. Regardless of Kuminga’s preference, the clock is ticking, and there is a chance the Lakers front office could begin to lose patience and pivot elsewhere.
Ultimately, the Lakers would be a better NBA team with Kuminga in the mix, but it remains to be seen when the situation gets resolved and where he lands when a decision is finally made.
Kuminga’s on-court complications
The forward has spent five seasons in the NBA, and while he possesses plenty of athleticism and overall potential, he has failed to realize much of that potential to this point. His 3-point shooting has been mostly subpar, and while he has the raw potential to become a very good defender, his execution on that end of the floor has been inconsistent.
Golden State Warriors, who drafted Kuminga with the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, traded him to Atlanta midway through last season. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr benched him multiple times before that midseason trade.
