Lakers reportedly give ex-Warriors NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga $20M contract update

The Los Angeles Lakers have been one of the NBA's busiest teams this offseason after LeBron James informed the organization that he would be leaving. One of the franchise's biggest moves was acquiring center Walker Kessler from the Utah Jazz.

Since James' departure, the Lakers have focused on building around Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves. Now, Los Angeles has reportedly turned its attention to former NBA champion Jonathan Kuminga.

“There is mutual free agent interest between Jonathan Kuminga and the Lakers, per Jovan Buha. Los Angeles continues to work behind the scenes to secure Kuminga’s commitment as their new wing addition,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery wrote.

The Lakers have an opportunity to pursue Kuminga after the Atlanta Hawks declined his team option, making him a free agent.

“The Atlanta Hawks are declining Jonathan Kuminga's $24.3 million team option, making him a free agent. Kuminga, who will turn 24 before next season, played in 16 regular-season games for the Hawks after joining the team via trade in February, averaging 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes. The trade was the result of a summerlong contract feud with the Golden State Warriors that followed years of discontent over his role on the team,” ESPN wrote.

Although the two sides have yet to reach an agreement, the mutual interest appears to be strong. Kuminga would provide the Lakers with the athleticism and versatility they have been searching for on the wing. A recent report also revealed what Los Angeles is reportedly willing to offer him.

“Jonathan Kuminga is a player the Lakers are after, according to people with knowledge of the situation who said L.A. is looking at a two-year, $20-million deal for Kuminga, the sort of athletic wing player the Lakers need to start at small forward,” LA Times' Brad Turner wrote.

Kuminga may be seeking a higher annual salary after earning $23 million last season, which could become a sticking point in negotiations. Ultimately, it will come down to how aggressive the Lakers are willing to be in pairing him with Doncic and Reaves.

The Lakers have a clear need for an athletic wing after several offseason departures. Kuminga's youth, athleticism, and ability to attack the basket would make him a strong fit in Los Angeles and could further strengthen the team's new core.

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