Cavaliers chase Jonathan Kuminga after LeBron joins 76ers

LeBron James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers, ending rumors of a return to Cleveland. With the Cavs no longer pursuing James, they turned their attention to free‑agent forward Jonathan Kuminga, who became unrestricted after the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24 million option.

Kuminga, a 23‑year‑old former lottery pick, has attracted interest from both the Los Angeles Lakers and the Cavaliers. The Lakers have offered a two‑year, $20 million contract, which Kuminga rejected, citing a desire for a higher salary and a sign‑and‑trade that could fetch $20‑23 million. The Cavaliers, who have a relationship between Kuminga and head coach Kenny Atkinson, could pursue a sign‑and‑trade involving veteran pieces such as Max Strus and Dennis Schröder, while staying under the NBA’s first salary apron to retain flexibility for a pending James Harden contract.

Cleveland’s salary‑cap situation limits its ability to match the Lakers’ offer directly; the team could extend Kuminga using a mid‑level exception for about $6 million, but that would reduce funds available for Harden. Nonetheless, the Cavs view Kuminga as a potential cornerstone alongside Donovan Mitchell and are weighing how to structure a deal that satisfies the player’s financial expectations while preserving roster flexibility.