Jonathan Kuminga has signed a two-year, $12.4 million deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves, choosing a short-term contract over a more lucrative offer from the Los Angeles Lakers. The agreement includes a player option for the 2027-28 season, per ESPN's Shams Charania. Kuminga, 23, selected Minnesota over the Lakers, Chicago Bulls, and Portland Trail Blazers after being pitched on a starting role alongside LaMelo Ball, Anthony Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, and Rudy Gobert. The Wolves must clear cap space to fit Kuminga's $6.1 million salary below the second apron, potentially waiving and stretching Josh Green before Saturday's deadline if no trade partner is found. Last summer, Kuminga signed a two-year, $48.5 million deal to return to Golden State as a restricted free agent after a prolonged standstill in restricted free agency. He averaged 12.1 points and 5.9 rebounds in 20 games with the Warriors before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks in a Kristaps Porziņģis-centered package. In 16 games with Atlanta, he averaged 13.7 points per game off the bench as the Hawks pushed the New York Knicks to six games in the first-round playoffs. The Hawks declined his $24.3 million team option, making him an unrestricted free agent. Earlier this offseason, the Lakers and other teams explored sign-and-trade scenarios for Kuminga, but no agreement was reached. Now, Kuminga heads to Minnesota on a short-term deal that grants him flexibility to become a free agent again next offseason. Before hitting the market, here's how he fits in Minnesota and why the investment could pay dividends.
What happened?
Kuminga's signing concludes a multi-year saga where the Warriors held onto him longer than ideal for their win-now timeline. His best career stretch came during the 2025 NBA Playoffs, averaging 20.8 points per game in an expanded role while Steph Curry was sidelined with a hamstring injury. On opening night of the 2025-26 season, he delivered a versatile performance in a win over the Lakers. However, inconsistent minutes with Golden State culminated in his trade in early 2026, ending years of uncertainty.
Why it matters for Minnesota Timberwolves
Kuminga represents a low-risk, high-reward addition for the Timberwolves, who last result lost 109-139 to the San Antonio Spurs on May 16, 2026. The team's recent form stands at 1 win and 4 losses in their last five games, including two consecutive defeats. Minnesota aims to elevate its standing near the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference. Kuminga's ability to contribute on the perimeter and in the paint could complement Anthony Edwards' driving and LaMelo Ball's playmaking. His defensive versatility may also aid Rudy Gobert's rim protection. The Wolves' need to clear cap space for Kuminga highlights their strategic flexibility under coach Chris Finch.
What comes next?
Kuminga's short-term deal allows him to re-enter free agency in 2027, giving both sides a trial period. If he thrives in a starting role, Minnesota could re-sign him or trade him for assets. The Wolves must finalize Josh Green's departure by Saturday to comply with the stretch deadline, per ESPN. Fans can track upcoming games on our [fixtures](/fixtures) page. His fit alongside the young core may accelerate the team's playoff push, especially after their recent 1W-0D-4L slide. The Wolves' quest to climb the standings continues as they prepare for critical matchups ahead of the [standings](/standings) page.
Key Context The 2026-05-16 result saw
Minnesota fall 109-139 to San Antonio, marking their fourth straight loss. Their current 1W-0D-4L record reflects mounting pressure on the roster to deliver immediate impact from Kuminga.
