Timberwolves Move Up in Jonathan Kuminga Sweepstakes
The Minnesota Timberwolves have emerged as one of the most intriguing remaining destinations for Jonathan Kuminga, who has lingered on the market deep into August. The Timberwolves' interest in Kuminga was first reported by Hoopshype's Michael Scotto, and ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel recently identified Minnesota as Kuminga's best basketball fit. The attraction is obvious: Minnesota has an opening at power forward and could put Kuminga alongside Anthony Edwards and Jaden McDaniels in an athletic, uptempo lineup.
What happened?
The Cleveland Cavaliers agreed to acquire restricted free agent Peyton Watson from the Denver Nuggets in a multi-team sign-and-trade, ending weeks of speculation over whether Cleveland would ultimately prioritize Watson or Jonathan Kuminga. Watson will sign a four-year, $88 million contract with Cleveland. The Cavaliers are sending Denver an unprotected 2031 first-round pick and a 2032 Sacramento second-round pick, while Max Strus goes to the Clippers.
Why it matters for Minnesota Timberwolves
The Cavaliers' decision has opened up opportunities for the Timberwolves to sign Kuminga. Cleveland had been creating financial flexibility to pursue either Watson or Kuminga, but an $88 million commitment and an unprotected first-round pick for Watson effectively take Cleveland off the board for Kuminga. That leaves Minnesota and the Lakers as two of the most prominent teams still connected to Kuminga.
What comes next?
The question is whether the Wolves can turn interest into an actual deal. Timberwolves president of basketball operations Tim Connelly offered an intriguing clue this week. Speaking on The Jon Krawczynski Show, Connelly acknowledged Minnesota's lack of depth at power forward and revealed that the front office remains engaged with available players. "We're talking to one or two free agents right now that can be intriguing," Connelly said. Connelly did not name those players, so there is no confirmation that Kuminga is among them. But the comment is noteworthy given Minnesota's reported interest in Kuminga and its obvious need at the position.
The financial reality remains the biggest obstacle. Kuminga has sought more than $20 million annually, while Minnesota lacks the straightforward spending power to approach that figure without additional maneuvering. Los Angeles has encountered a similar gap in its negotiations. Cleveland's exit, however, changes the leverage.
Will Jonathan Kuminga Lower His Asking Price?
Kuminga can continue waiting, but one of his most credible alternatives disappeared Wednesday. His camp could lower its salary expectations and consider whatever Minnesota or Los Angeles can realistically offer. Or it could continue working with Atlanta to manufacture a sign-and-trade that delivers a larger contract while giving the Hawks sufficient compensation to cooperate.
Last result: Minnesota Timberwolves 109-139 San Antonio Spurs (2026-05-16). Recent form (last 5): 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first); lost the last 4.
