What happened: Atlanta declined Kuminga's $24.3 million option for 2026-27, making him a free agent. Cleveland's pursuit of Kuminga would require Atlanta's cooperation to exceed an outright offer of roughly $6 million.

Why it matters: The Cavaliers must stay below the roughly $209 million first salary apron, tying any Kuminga structure to broader roster moves. That flexibility also affects the size and timing of Cleveland's unsigned deal with James Harden.

What to watch: Watch whether Cleveland advances talks with Atlanta or Kuminga returns to the Hawks on a short contract.