Reporter: Lakers target Jonathan Kuminga is 'still holding out'

With the Cleveland Cavaliers landing Peyton Watson in a multi-team sign-and-trade deal from the Denver Nuggets, it seems the Cavaliers are out of the running for Jonathan Kuminga. The Los Angeles Lakers have wanted Kuminga since the start of the NBA's free agency period, and the Minnesota Timberwolves are also rumored to be interested in the 23-year-old forward. Kuminga, still a free agent, is demanding a contract paying at least $20 million annually. Reporter Keith Smith said on the 'NBA Front Office' show that Kuminga is 'still holding out' for a sizable contract. Smith noted, 'I know the Lakers would still love to acquire him. That is certainly on the table still.' However, Kuminga insists on a much bigger contract than currently expected. Kuminga's potential is notable, with athletic ability and a threat in transition, but he has not fully developed in five professional seasons, averaging 12.5 points in 22.1 minutes per game on 50.2% field-goal shooting and 33.2% from three-point range. He was traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Atlanta Hawks mid-season, where he was benched multiple times. Reports suggest conflicting negotiations between the Lakers and Hawks regarding a sign-and-trade package. If the Lakers proceed, they would take a significant risk on Kuminga, given their limited draft capital.