Jonathan Kuminga likely to join Lakers after Cavaliers trade for Watson
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 1:36 AM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Jonathan Kuminga's potential move to the Los Angeles Lakers gains momentum following a trade involving the Cleveland Cavaliers, who acquired Peyton Watson from the Los Angeles Clippers and Denver Nuggets. With the Cavaliers now out of the running for Kuminga, the Lakers, initially unable to sign him for their proposed $10 million deal, may have a clearer path to securing the forward. Options for a sign-and-trade deal with the Atlanta Hawks also remain a possibility. The Lakers still seek to enhance their roster with a versatile wing defender, positioning Kuminga as a valuable target as the summer progresses.
- •Cavaliers acquire Peyton Watson in a three-team trade.
- •Lakers may have better chance to sign Kuminga now.
- •Kuminga's previous contract demands created a stalemate.
- •Lakers need a versatile wing defender before the season starts.
- •Potential sign-and-trade with Atlanta also possible.
- 1:36 AMYahoo Sports — Jonathan Kuminga joining Lakers gains traction after Cavaliers land Peyton Watson in 3-team trade
"On Wednesday, the Cavaliers seemingly took themselves out of contention by instead acquiring Peyton Watson.
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