Overview
- After the Atlanta Hawks declined Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option on June 29, the Lakers quickly made him a top target and held a virtual meeting with GM Rob Pelinka and coach J.J. Redick to pitch a starting role next to Luka Dončić.
- Multiple outlets report the Lakers have floated a roughly two‑year, $20 million contract framework but lack the cap room to match Kuminga’s expected market pay in a straight signing.
- Los Angeles has used most of its offseason space on moves including Walker Kessler, Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Collin Sexton and a one‑year deal for Kevon Looney, leaving only one open roster spot.
- The team is exploring a sign‑and‑trade with Atlanta and salary‑dump trades that could involve Jarred Vanderbilt, Dalton Knecht, Jaden Hardy and second‑round picks to create room and match salaries for Kuminga.
- Kuminga and his agent have not accepted the Lakers’ offer and are weighing other suitors while Atlanta’s willingness to facilitate a sign‑and‑trade and its asking price will likely decide whether Los Angeles must part with young players or picks.