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NBA·ANALYSIS·July 28, 2026 05:32 PM ET

Lakers, Hawks never held meaningful Kuminga trade talks — report

Contract structure remains the obstacle to a deal.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Jul 281 min read
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What happened: Los Angeles remains interested in adding Jonathan Kuminga as its starting small forward. Kuminga is unwilling to accept a three-year sign-and-trade structure at a salary he considers below market value.

Why it matters: Los Angeles' pursuit of Kuminga now depends on a contract compromise and a workable transaction with Atlanta. The lack of substantive talks leaves the proposed move without an established framework.

By the numbers: Kuminga has sought $20 million to $23 million annually, while a sign-and-trade requires a three-year contract.

What to watch: Watch for movement on Kuminga's contract demands or renewed discussions between Los Angeles and Atlanta.

Sources

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