We now know why the Lakers haven’t traded for Jonathan Kuminga yet

1 day ago 3

Given that the Los Angeles Lakers haven't had much luck in trading for Jonathan Kuminga, one has to question whether Los Angeles is even that interested in him.

At the moment, the Lakers have decided to go in a few different directions with other players, landing some other 3-and-D guys who should come in and make a nice little impact for this organization.

However, according to the latest report, there's still some interest between the Lakers and the Atlanta Hawks in a potential trade involving the former Golden State Warriors youngster.

Per the report, however, the Hawks don't want to take back Jarred Vanderbilt's $13.29 million deal, so the question now is whether Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy could get the trade done.

"The Hawks have been resistant to taking on Vanderbilt’s $13.29 million salary for the 2027-28 season, which is a player option,” Michael Scotto wrote.

“Could a combination of Dalton Knecht and Jaden Hardy, who both have team options for the 2027-28 season, work better in a three-team trade construct involving Kuminga landing with the Lakers and the Hawks getting a traded player exception along with draft pick compensation?"

If Kuminga were to land with the Lakers, it feels like a sign-and-trade is bound to happen involving a third team. Not that the Lakers can't get something done without involving a third team, but it's much more likely to happen if they go that route.