Khobi Price of the California Post reports that the Lakers are interested in acquiring Jonathan Kuminga via sign-and-trade.
While there is mutual interest between the Lakers and Kuminga, who is an unrestricted free agent after the Hawks declined his option, the two sides are reportedly far apart on a deal. With the Lakers’ activity at the start of free agency, they’re limited in how much money they can spend to fill their remaining roster spot. In fact, the Lakers would have to shed $20 million to pay Kuminga $10 million annually, and that price tag won’t get the job done. As a result, it’s been reported that the Lakers are interested in a sign-and-trade that would send Jarred Vanderbilt and a 2032 first-round pick to Atlanta. While Vanderbilt offers limited offensive production at best, he is a solid defender. However, his contract combined with a future first-round pick may not be all that appealing to the Hawks. Cleveland is also reportedly interested in Kuminga, but the chase for LeBron James takes priority for the Cavaliers.
