Los Angeles Lakers chase free‑agent Jonathan Kuminga as they rebuild

The Los Angeles Lakers have overhauled their roster this offseason after the departure of LeBron James, adding center Walker Kessler on a four‑year, $130 million deal and bringing in several role players. With limited cap space, the franchise’s top priority is signing forward Jonathan Kuminga, who became an unrestricted free agent after the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option.

Lakers president Rob Pelinka and the front office have made multiple offers and are in regular contact with Kuminga’s agent, seeking a deal that fits both the player’s market expectations and the team’s financial constraints. Reports indicate that Kuminga remains the Lakers’ "top wing priority" and that the club is exploring sign‑and‑trade options, using recent draft‑pick acquisitions to add flexibility.

The pursuit of Kuminga is part of a broader strategy to build around superstar Luka Dončić, who has praised the team’s recent signings, and to fill the void left by departing veterans. The outcome of the Kuminga negotiations will determine whether the Lakers enter the 2026‑27 season with a complete roster capable of contending.