The Minnesota Timberwolves are in a tough spot as they try to land Jonathan Kuminga, with the Lakers and Cavs making significant moves in the process. Last result: Minnesota Timberwolves 109-139 San Antonio Spurs (2026-05-16). The Timberwolves have access to a $6.06 million taxpayer mid-level exception, but the Lakers have a higher financial offer and a longer contract on the table. Kuminga, who arrived in the NBA after being traded alongside Buddy Hield by the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis, is known for being unwilling to commit long-term on a deal that he deemed less than what he is worth. His initial demand was for a $20 million a year deal, which is a requisite for any sign-and-trade under NBA rules. The Timberwolves cannot offer the same kind of money, with Kuminga's camp understood to be patient also because they expect further potential movement in the free agency market. The Lakers, meanwhile, are understood to have had a $20 million, 2-year deal rejected by Kuminga, which still makes them the most plausible of the three destinations. And so, unless a new team with better financial limits expresses interest, the Lakers appear to be the most plausible destination for the former Warriors star as of now. The Timberwolves have the PF slot open for a player of Kuminga's caliber, which means that despite potentially offering the better basketball fit, the other two teams are understood to be ahead. Kuminga's reluctance to sign a three-year contract is a further complication for the Cavs in particular, who need a sign-and-trade in order to make the acquisition happen. The Timberwolves' recent form has been lackluster, with a record of 1W-0D-4L (LLLLW, most recent first), which is a far cry from their playoff aspirations. The Lakers, on the other hand, have been on a roll, with a recent win over the Los Angeles Clippers. The Cavs, meanwhile, are still reeling from their loss to the Boston Celtics. The Timberwolves' chances of landing Kuminga are slim, but they cannot give up hope. They need to find a way to overcome their financial restrictions and make a serious push for the signing of the talented young forward. The clock is ticking, and the Timberwolves must act quickly if they want to make a move on Kuminga.