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Jonathan Kuminga’s long-running free agency saga may finally be approaching a conclusion. With September only days away, the 23-year-old forward is reportedly choosing between the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, Kuminga appears to prefer the Lakers. The report adds a significant new layer to a situation that has remained unresolved for the second consecutive offseason.
Jonathan Kuminga Reportedly Prefers the Lakers
Kuminga’s free agency has dragged deep into the offseason. Last year, he did not agree to a new contract with the Golden State Warriors until Sept. 30. He was later traded to the Atlanta Hawks ahead of the February 2026 trade deadline.
Atlanta subsequently declined its $24.3 million team option on Kuminga, making him an unrestricted free agent. Despite interest from multiple teams, no agreement has been completed, leaving the former Warriors standout at the center of the NBA rumor cycle.
Fischer said the decision appears to be down to Los Angeles and Minnesota, while suggesting that Kuminga has shown a preference for the Lakers.
“Kuminga, I think, has seemed to prefer going to the Lakers,” Fischer said, according to the report. “They have the most opportunity to negotiate there.”
The Lakers have reportedly been presenting Kuminga with a vision that includes a starting role next to Luka Doncic. That opportunity could be especially appealing as Los Angeles looks to address a major hole in its frontcourt.
Why Los Angeles Is an Attractive Destination
The Lakers’ interest in Kuminga has been widely reported, and the team’s need for a versatile combo forward is clear. Following the departures of LeBron James and Rui Hachimura, Los Angeles needs athleticism, size and scoring on the wing and in the power-forward rotation.
A starting opportunity beside Doncic could give Kuminga a prominent role in a high-profile lineup. The Lakers are also reportedly selling him on the possibility of greater financial flexibility in the future if their roster plans develop as expected.
- A potential starting role next to Luka Doncic
- A major opportunity to establish himself in Los Angeles
- A prominent role in a team with championship ambitions
- The possibility of improved financial options next year
However, the Lakers’ current financial position makes a direct signing difficult. The team has already used its room exception on Collin Sexton, meaning Kuminga could effectively have to sign for the minimum unless Los Angeles completes a sign-and-trade with Atlanta.
Timberwolves Remain a Powerful Threat
Minnesota remains a serious contender for Kuminga because the team can offer the taxpayer mid-level exception. The Timberwolves also created a clear need in the frontcourt after trading Julius Randle and Naz Reid during an aggressive offseason reshaping.
Adding Kuminga would give Minnesota a young, athletic option at power forward while adding another player capable of attacking the rim, defending multiple positions and contributing in transition. His skill set could complement the team’s revamped roster and provide valuable depth during a long playoff campaign.
Fischer indicated that the Timberwolves should not be dismissed, even if Los Angeles currently appears to have the edge. The available contract structures could ultimately play a decisive role in the final outcome.
Contract Decisions Could Determine Kuminga’s Next Team
The Lakers could potentially offer more attractive money through a sign-and-trade, but such a deal would require cooperation from the Hawks. Atlanta may be reluctant to take part if the transaction pushes the franchise into the luxury-tax threshold.
That financial complication could give Minnesota an advantage. The Timberwolves may be able to present a more straightforward offer using the taxpayer mid-level exception, while Los Angeles would need to negotiate carefully around its cap and roster limitations.
Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game last season, shooting 46% from the field, 33% from three-point range and 72% at the free-throw line. Those numbers suggest a player who still has considerable upside and could benefit from a larger, more consistent role.
For now, the Lakers appear to be Kuminga’s reported preference, but the Timberwolves have the financial tools and roster opportunity to remain firmly in the race. Fischer expects the situation to reach some form of conclusion soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams are competing for Jonathan Kuminga?
The latest report points to the Los Angeles Lakers and Minnesota Timberwolves as the two leading destinations for Kuminga.
Does Jonathan Kuminga prefer the Lakers?
Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer said Kuminga appears to prefer Los Angeles, particularly because of the opportunity to start next to Luka Doncic.
Why is a Lakers deal complicated?
The Lakers have limited financial flexibility after using their room exception. They may need a sign-and-trade with Atlanta to offer Kuminga a stronger contract.
What can the Timberwolves offer?
Minnesota can use the taxpayer mid-level exception and offer Kuminga a clear frontcourt role following the departures of Julius Randle and Naz Reid.
What were Kuminga’s numbers last season?
Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game while shooting 46% from the field, 33% from three-point range and 72% from the free-throw line.
