Jonathan Kuminga could give the Lakers the explosive, athletic wing their remodeled roster still lacks.
The Los Angeles Lakers have transformed their roster around Luka Dončić, but one potential weakness remains difficult to overlook.
L.A. lacks a proven, athletic forward who can pressure the rim, defend bigger wings and thrive in transition. Jonathan Kuminga could address those needs if the Lakers can revive their stalled pursuit of the unrestricted free agent.
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Los Angeles met with Kuminga shortly after free agency opened and pitched him on a high-minutes role with a high-profile fringe contender. Kuminga was interested, but the proposed sign-and-trade terms involving the Atlanta Hawks did not satisfy every party.
Slater reported that the Lakers remain interested, although talks have not progressed for weeks.
Kuminga would add a missing dimension
The Lakers have added more shooting and defensive versatility this summer, signing Quentin Grimes, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Ziaire Williams and Matisse Thybulle. None possesses Kuminga’s combination of strength, explosiveness and downhill scoring.
The 23-year-old could give L.A. another transition threat while providing Dončić with an athletic cutter and lob target. Dončić consistently creates openings by drawing multiple defenders, and Kuminga would be positioned to attack rotating defenses rather than generate every opportunity himself.
Kuminga averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 16 games after being traded from the Golden State Warriors to Atlanta last season. He shot 50.2% overall during the 2025-26 season, demonstrating that he can score efficiently when given favorable matchups.
His outside shooting remains inconsistent, which could occasionally complicate the Lakers’ spacing. However, Walker Kessler’s rim running and the shooting surrounding Dončić should create opportunities for Kuminga to operate as a cutter, screener and secondary attacker.
Feb 26, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forwardJonathanKuminga(0) reacts after making a three point shot against the Washington Wizards during the first half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn ImagesA role that could benefit both sides
The Lakers could also offer something Kuminga has sought throughout his career: consistent playing time.
His role fluctuated during his years with Golden State, and Atlanta declined his team option after acquiring him in February. Los Angeles could give him significant minutes at forward following LeBron James’ departure and Rui Hachimura’s move to the Clippers.
Kuminga would still need to defend consistently, rebound and remain effective without controlling the ball. L.A. already has several guards capable of creating offense, including Dončić, Austin Reaves and Collin Sexton. His success would depend on accepting a complementary role.
Jan 20, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forwardJonathanKuminga(1) looks to pass against the Toronto Raptors in the second quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn ImagesThe financial and trade complications cannot be ignored. The Lakers already have 16 players on guaranteed contracts and would need to create roster space regardless of how Kuminga arrives. Atlanta must also approve any sign-and-trade package.
Still, Kuminga’s age and physical profile make him worth pursuing. He would provide an element the current roster does not easily replicate and could raise the Lakers’ ceiling if placed in a defined role.
The negotiations may be stalled, but the basketball fit remains clear.
