The Atlanta Hawks have signaled openness to a sign-and-trade that would send Jonathan Kuminga to the Los Angeles Lakers in exchange for Jarred Vanderbilt and the Lakers' 2032 first-round pick swap.
Kuminga turned 24 this offseason. The Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option after he averaged 12.3 points and 5.3 rebounds in 22.1 minutes per game across 16 regular-season appearances. Vanderbilt carries two years and $25.7 million remaining on his deal, with salaries of $12.4 million in 2026-27 and a $13.3 million player option for 2027-28. The structure would also allow the Lakers to offer Kuminga a contract starting at a higher annual figure than the roughly $10 million they could otherwise provide as a free agent. That could land in the range of a two-year, $20 million deal.
Kuminga brings explosive athleticism and transition finishing the Lakers need on the wing. His ability to attack closeouts and switch onto multiple positions fits modern defensive schemes. The 33.3 percent three-point shooting last season highlights the need for continued development as a spacer. Those improvements could help him anchor a starting frontcourt alongside a star like Luka Doncic in spacious spacing.
The move aligns with the Hawks' recent pattern of prioritizing flexibility. Declining the option frees them to reshape their roster around younger pieces without committing long-term money to Kuminga. Atlanta can now pursue multiple avenues in free agency while maintaining cap flexibility for future moves.
For the Lakers, the framework continues a summer push to add versatile wings while shedding salary. The deal addresses limited cap room and adds a high-upside athlete who can contribute immediately in transition. Los Angeles has targeted similar forward profiles this offseason to build depth around its core.
The Hawks face a decision point before free agency advances further. Other suitors could escalate their pursuit of Kuminga and force Atlanta to match offers or walk away. If the framework holds, Kuminga could finalize terms quickly once the Lakers clear the necessary space through the deal. This approach shows how salary management creates opportunities to acquire wings without giving up future first-round picks beyond a distant swap.
