The Lakers continue to pursue Jonathan Kuminga, but one player's contract remains the biggest obstacle preventing a deal from getting done.
The Los Angeles Lakers have remained active in their search for additional frontcourt help this offseason, and Jonathan Kuminga continues to be linked to the organization.
While the talented forward has generated interest from multiple teams around the league, one player on L.A.'s roster appears to be standing in the way of serious progress toward a sign-and-trade agreement.
The Lakers and Atlanta Hawks recently discussed a sign-and-trade that would have sent Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick swap to Atlanta in exchange for Kuminga, according to the California Post.
Oct 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Luka Doncic (77) looks to drive against Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) during the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn ImagesHowever, the Hawks have reportedly been reluctant to absorb Vanderbilt's contract, particularly his $13.29 million player option for the 2027-28 season.
That financial commitment has become one of the biggest hurdles in negotiations as the Lakers continue exploring ways to add another versatile forward around Luka Dončić.
Vanderbilt's Contract Complicates Talks
Vanderbilt has carved out an important role with the Lakers because of his defensive versatility as a wing defender. Since arriving in L.A. during the 2022-23 season, he has frequently been tasked with defending opposing teams' best scorers at times while bringing his energy off the bench.
Dec 25, 2024; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) dribbles against the Los Angeles Lakers during the fourth quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn ImagesDespite those strengths, his contract appears to be limiting his trade value at $12 million this year and the jump next season.
The 27-year-old played in 65 games last season, averaging 4.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists while shooting 47.1% from the field. Although he remains one of the team's best perimeter defenders, his limited offensive production and future salary commitment may not align with what Atlanta is looking to add.
The Hawks' reported hesitation is understandable from a roster-building standpoint. Taking on Vanderbilt's contract would reduce future financial flexibility, even if the Lakers include draft compensation in the deal.
Unless another team becomes involved or the trade framework changes, Vanderbilt's salary could continue preventing negotiations from moving forward.
Kuminga Still Makes Sense for L.A.
Even with talks reportedly hitting a roadblock, Kuminga remains an intriguing target for the Lakers because of his age and upside.
The 23-year-old averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists while shooting 46.3% from the field in 36 games during the 2025-26 season after splitting time between the Golden State Warriors and Hawks. Over five NBA seasons, the former No. 7 overall pick has averaged 12.5 points while showing flashes of becoming a reliable two-way forward.
His athleticism, ability to finish at the rim and defensive versatility would fit well alongside Dončić and the Lakers' revamped roster.
For now, though, a deal remains uncertain. Atlanta's unwillingness to take on Vanderbilt's contract has stalled discussions, leaving the Lakers searching for another path if they hope to acquire Kuminga before the offseason ends.
