The Los Angeles Lakers may be considered the favorites to land Jonathan Kuminga, but a new threat has emerged in the prolonged pursuit of the free-agent forward.
NBA insider Evan Sidery reported that the Minnesota Timberwolves should be viewed as a “realistic option” for Kuminga, whose free agency could be resolved this week.
“The Lakers are viewed as the favorites, but don’t rule out the Timberwolves as a realistic option,” Sidery wrote. “Kuminga might end up betting on himself taking a 1-year deal playing alongside LaMelo Ball + Anthony Edwards.”
The Lakers remain favorites for Jonathan Kuminga, but a potential one-year Timberwolves deal could complicate their pursuit of the free-agent forward. NBAE via Getty Images
The Lakers have reportedly offered Kuminga a considerably more lucrative multiyear contract than Minnesota can provide. Los Angeles would need the Atlanta Hawks to cooperate in a sign-and-trade, however, creating a complicated path to completing the deal.
A sign-and-trade contract must cover at least three seasons. The Lakers could reportedly offer Kuminga between $15 million and $18 million annually, but they would also need to move players such as Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia or Dalton Knecht. Draft compensation or a third team may be required to convince Atlanta to participate.
Minnesota can offer only its $6.06 million taxpayer mid-level exception and must create additional room below the second apron. The Timberwolves’ potential advantage is the opportunity they could offer Kuminga rather than the money.
Los Angeles can offer more financial security and a role alongside Luka Doncic (pictured February 3). Corey Sipkin for NY Post
The 23-year-old could accept a one-year contract, take over Minnesota’s starting power forward job and attempt to rebuild his value alongside Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball. He would then return to the market in 2027 rather than committing to an offer he believes undervalues him.
Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, a career-high 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 36 games last season. His desire for a larger role contributed to the end of his tenure with Golden State before he was traded to Atlanta.
Los Angeles can offer more financial security and a role alongside Luka Doncic, but Minnesota’s shorter path back to free agency could complicate the Lakers’ pursuit.
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