RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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See the full story · 1 sourcesCavaliers reportedly meeting with ex-Warriors champion Jonathan Kuminga to gain edge over Lakers originally appeared on The Sporting News .
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The Cleveland Cavaliers and Los Angeles Lakers are doing everything they can to convince Jonathan Kuminga to join their respective organizations. As a restricted free agent, Kuminga's future is complicated by the Atlanta Hawks , who still have significant control over the process.
The Lakers have been pursuing Kuminga since the beginning of the offseason, and at one point it appeared they were well-positioned to get a deal done. However, Kuminga was not interested in Los Angeles' initial contract offer.
“The Lakers could've signed him to a 2 year, $20M deal. He was not interested in that. I've heard he's been looking for closer to $20M AAV... There's a gap,” Lakers insider Jovan Buha said.
Since then, Kuminga's free agency has become one of the most intriguing storylines of the offseason. The former NBA champion is reportedly seeking a contract worth more than $20 million annually.
“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.
It appears Kuminga could ultimately sign with whichever team is willing to meet his contract demands first. Cleveland is doing everything it can to make that happen. According to reports, the Cavaliers are scheduled to meet with Kuminga in an effort to separate themselves from the Lakers in the race for his services.
“The Cavaliers will meet with Jonathan Kuminga about working towards finalizing a potential sign-and-trade agreement soon, per Chris Fedor. Cleveland is a main finalist for Kuminga’s services alongside the Lakers. Kuminga continues to seek a deal exceeding $20 million annually,” Sidery wrote.
The Cavaliers envision Kuminga as their starting wing for the foreseeable future. Meanwhile, the Lakers appear to be losing momentum as the situation continues to unfold.
By meeting with Kuminga, Cleveland hopes to move closer to an agreement that satisfies both sides. The Cavaliers also have an opportunity to present their long-term vision for Kuminga and show why they believe he can play a major role in the franchise's future.
More NBA news:
Lakers predicted to move on from Jonathan Kuminga, trade for 7-year veteran with Finals experience
76ers waive former first-rounder to make room for star LeBron James, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
Lakers get massive sign-and-trade update for ex-Warriors Jonathan Kuminga after Cavs' latest move
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