Jonathan Kuminga signs two-year deal with Minnesota Timberwolves after declining larger offers

Jonathan Kuminga has signed a two-year contract worth $12.4 million with the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to ESPN reports. The deal includes a second-year team option and was chosen over a reported three-year, $12 million-plus per year offer from the Los Angeles Lakers that would have been structured as a sign-and-trade.

The Warriors had previously discussed a three-year, $75.2 million contract with Kuminga, but the player opted for the shorter Minnesota deal, which could become a flexible arrangement if he is traded before the 2025-26 season. Kuminga and his agent Aaron Turner said the move provides greater control over his future and the possibility of re-entering free agency next summer.

During the offseason, Kuminga’s options narrowed as several teams faced cap constraints. The Cleveland Cavaliers, Los Angeles Clippers, Miami Heat and Atlanta Hawks were unable to present competitive offers, leaving the Lakers and Timberwolves as the primary suitors. The Lakers, having exhausted their cap space, would have needed to acquire Kuminga via a sign-and-trade, potentially involving additional assets.

Kuminga’s agent noted the player’s interest in playing for the Lakers and his appreciation for Cleveland, but the final decision favored Minnesota, where he is expected to have a starting role and the opportunity to showcase his abilities.

"Kuminga, I think, has seemed to prefer going to the Lakers. They’ve had the most opportunity to negotiate there," an NBA insider said.

The contract includes a second-year team option that could be exercised by either the Timberwolves or Kuminga, depending on his performance and the team’s plans for the 2025-26 season.