The Los Angeles Lakers remain the frontrunners to sign Jonathan Kuminga, but the Minnesota Timberwolves are emerging as a legitimate challenger for the free-agent forward.
According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, Minnesota has become a “realistic option” as Kuminga’s prolonged free agency nears a resolution.
“The Lakers are viewed as the favorites, but don’t rule out the Timberwolves as a realistic option,” Sidery wrote. “Kuminga might end up betting on himself taking a 1-year deal playing alongside LaMelo Ball + Anthony Edwards.”
While Los Angeles can reportedly offer Kuminga a richer long-term contract, completing a sign-and-trade would require cooperation from the Atlanta Hawks.
Such a deal would likely involve salary-matching players, draft compensation and possibly a third team.
Minnesota, meanwhile, has far less financial flexibility and can offer only its taxpayer mid-level exception.
However, the Timberwolves could appeal to Kuminga with a one-year contract that would allow him to start at power forward, play alongside Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball, and re-enter free agency in 2027.
The 23-year-old averaged 12.2 points, a career-best 5.6 rebounds and 2.3 assists last season before his time with Golden State came to an end.
Although the Lakers can provide greater financial security and the chance to play next to Luka Doncic, Minnesota’s shorter path back to free agency could complicate Los Angeles’ pursuit.
Lakers face new Jonathan Kuminga threat from West contenders https://t.co/dEo536do0A pic.twitter.com/PHQqU6rxQB
— New York Post (@nypost) August 3, 2026
