Report: Cavs, Kuminga have mutual interest

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 1: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the Atlanta Hawks dunks the ball during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on March 1, 2026 at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE
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The Cleveland Cavaliers and forward Jonathan Kuminga have mutual interest, sources told The Athletic's Joe Vardon.

Kuminga became an unrestricted free agent this summer after the Atlanta Hawks declined his $24.3-million player option for next season. The former No. 7 overall pick averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 boards, and 2.3 assists across 36 appearances in 2025-26.

"Jonathan likes the Cavs, likes (head coach) Kenny Atkinson, and Donovan Mitchell likes him," Kuminga's agent told Vardon.

Atkinson previously coached Kuminga when he was an assistant for the Golden State Warriors under Steve Kerr.

Cleveland could offer Kuminga more money by acquiring him from the Hawks in a sign-and-trade.

The Los Angeles Lakers were another team linked to Kuminga, but the Hawks reportedly found their potential sign-and-trade offer underwhelming and less appealing than the Cavs.

Veterans Max Strus and Dennis Schroder are candidates to be included in a possible sign-and-trade for Kuminga.

Cleveland's coming off its first East finals appearance since 2018. The Cavs were reportedly in the mix for LeBron James and have already lost Dean Wade, Keon Ellis, and Larry Nance Jr. in free agency this offseason.

James Harden is also on the market after declining his $42.3-million player option for 2026-27.

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