Lakers and Hawks Resume Sign-and-Trade Negotiations for Jonathan Kuminga

The Los Angeles Lakers and the Atlanta Hawks have reopened negotiations regarding a sign-and-trade transaction for forward Jonathan Kuminga on August 25, 2026, a move that could significantly alter the roster depth of the Los Angeles franchise.

As Kuminga and his representative explore options on the free-agent market following a move by the Cleveland Cavaliers for Peyton Watson, his primary avenues remain a multi-year agreement with Los Angeles via sign-and-trade or potentially joining the Minnesota Timberwolves on a minimum contract.

Initial negotiations between Los Angeles and Atlanta stalled earlier this summer because the Hawks sought to avoid taking on additional guaranteed salary. Atlanta currently sits $3.8 million below the luxury tax threshold with 17 players under contract heading into training camp, creating a necessity to shed at least two roster spots rather than add guaranteed contracts.

Recent discussions have shifted to center around guard Jaden Hardy, who carries a $6 million salary for the upcoming season with a team option for the subsequent year, replacing forward Jarred Vanderbilt and his $12.4 million salary in earlier trade frameworks. To complete the deal without taking back long-term money, Atlanta continues to seek draft asset compensation as an incentive.

Financial regulations require Los Angeles to send out salary in any transaction to land Kuminga. If the deal expands into a multi-team layout involving Hardy or rookie guard Dalton Knecht, guard Bronny James could face increased roster vulnerability prior to the upcoming season.

While James remains positioned ahead of Hardy and Knecht on the current depth chart, acquiring Kuminga to fill the starting power forward slot alongside Luka Doncic would compress the available roster spots. Los Angeles already maintains heavy backcourt depth featuring Doncic, Austin Reaves, Quentin Grimes, and Collin Sexton.

Should Los Angeles elect to trim its roster by parting ways with James, he could potentially enter waivers or seek opportunities with rebuilding franchises, including the Philadelphia 76ers during LeBron James' eventual farewell tour.