The Los Angeles Lakers’ pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga may ultimately come down to one thing: money.
According to Lakers insider Jovan Buha, speaking on The Herd, Kuminga is seeking a contract worth approximately $20 million per season. That asking price has emerged as one of the biggest obstacles in negotiations as Los Angeles continues to explore ways to acquire the talented forward.
Kuminga, 23, remains one of the NBA’s most intriguing young players thanks to his elite athleticism, positional versatility, and two-way potential. While his role fluctuated at times with the Golden State Warriors, he has consistently shown flashes of becoming a high-level starter capable of impacting games on both ends of the floor.
For the Lakers, adding a player with Kuminga’s skill set would address several needs, including wing depth, transition scoring, and defensive versatility. However, fitting a $20 million annual salary into their financial picture—particularly through a potential sign-and-trade—adds another layer of complexity.
The reported salary demand also reflects Kuminga’s belief in his value entering the prime years of his career. Young wings with size, athleticism, and upside have become some of the league’s most coveted assets, making contract negotiations especially significant.
Whether the Lakers are willing to meet Kuminga’s asking price—or whether another team steps in with a more lucrative offer—remains one of the biggest storylines to watch as the offseason unfolds.
If Los Angeles believes Kuminga can develop into a foundational piece alongside its current core, paying a premium now could prove worthwhile. If not, the Lakers may be forced to look elsewhere for wing help.
One thing is certain: Jonathan Kuminga’s market is beginning to take shape, and it appears to start at $20 million per year.
What do you think? Is Jonathan Kuminga worth $20 million annually, or is that too steep for a player who has yet to become a full-time star? Let us know in the comments.
