Lakers' pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga stalls amid contract disputes
Negotiations for a sign-and-trade that would send Jonathan Kuminga to the Los Angeles Lakers have stalled, with reports citing unmet salary expectations.
Talks between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Atlanta Hawks over a sign-and-trade for forward Jonathan Kuminga have made little headway, according to league insiders. Kuminga's representatives are reportedly aiming for a contract near $20 million, a demand considered steep given his spotty starter status and past benchings. The Lakers pitched him a high-minutes role on a contender needing wing athleticism, but the proposed package did not satisfy all parties.
Despite the deadlock, the Lakers are still listed as interested, while the Cleveland Cavaliers and Minnesota Timberwolves have also expressed curiosity. Kuminga, a 23-year-old former lottery pick, previously negotiated a two-year, $46.8 million deal with Golden State before being traded to Atlanta in February.
Why it matters
The stalled deal affects the Lakers' roster plans and could shift the balance of talent among several NBA teams.
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