With the Cleveland Cavaliers landing Mario Hezonja, the team is busy at work rounding out its roster after missing out on the reunion with LeBron James, who eventually chose to play for the Philadelphia 76ers. As rumors will surround the Cavs regarding who else they’ll add to the team, one name that has been linked to the franchise is Jonathan Kuminga.
Though Kuminga is an unrestricted free agent and Cleveland is looking to be below the second apron, the way to get the 23-year-0ld would be through a sign-and-trade. According to ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel and his reporting after James decided to choose the 76ers over the Cavs and other teams, Kuminga “does have interest” in going to Cleveland.
Kuminga also has interest from the Los Angeles Lakers, and with the forward wanting a “contract in the $14 million to $18 million range,” a sign-and-trade is the only way.
One player that could be in a deal would be Cavs guard Dennis Schroder, especially since the franchise is “exceptionally high” on second-round pick Meleek Thomas out of Arkansas, with the belief he can come off the bench and immediately make an impact.
The Cavs have been in touch with Jonathan Kuminga’s agent
Regarding James not choosing the Cavs to finish off his career, the one executive who “spent time” with the 41-year-old during the offseason was assistant general manager Brandon Weems, according to Joe Vardon and David Aldridge of The Athletic. Also a childhood friend and high school teammate, it wasn’t enough, as the team was “unsure” if James ever wanted to return.
However, The Athletic also reports that team officials “stayed in contact” with Aaron Turner, Kuminga’s agent, about coming to the Cavs if James signed elsewhere.
Kuminga had spent the first four seasons with the Golden State Warriors before being traded in-season to the Atlanta Hawks. Last season with Golden State and Atlanta in 36 games combined, Kuminga averaged 12.2 points and 5.6 rebounds while shooting 46.3 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from deep.
It remains to be seen if Cleveland ultimately lands Kuminga this offseason.