There's a new development in the Jonathan Kuminga sweepstakes every day.
This long into this year's free agency period, still without resolution, it seems the Kuminga market isn't as busy as many initially perceived it to be.
Of all the rumored landing spots outside of Atlanta heading into the offseason, there are likely only two remaining in the hunt. The Los Angeles Lakers and Cleveland Cavaliers.
When negotiations between suitors and his camp began lasting a bit longer than expected, people blamed it on various outside factors. Maybe it was LeBron's impending decision. Maybe it was Mario Hezonja, the experienced forward who was set on making a return to the NBA after several years overseas.
Turns out, it was neither, contrary to popular belief and recent reporting.
Hezonja signing won't stop Cleveland from pursuing Kuminga
The initial belief, once the Cavaliers officially brought in the 31-year-old forward, was that they'd be out of the Kuminga sweepstakes. People began to pencil in the Lakers as his all-but confirmed landing spot, if it wasn't going to be his former team.
In all fairness, it would make the most sense. Cleveland wanted LeBron. Hezonja and Kuminga were potential fallback options. Once Hezonja landed, the idea of them bringing in another forward deserving of significant playing time felt murky.
The thing about Los Angeles, though, is that they would, without a doubt, have a perfect spot in the rotation ready for him upon arrival.
One of the more active squads in this summer's free agency period, the Lakers don't appear to be done. They shouldn't be, at least. Of all their additions so far, it's clear they still lack the forward depth to be a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.
Not only would Kuminga add to that, but he would likely start. The same can't be said about his potential role in Cleveland.
Still, the Cavaliers can't be ruled out, as they look to stay aggressive
After finally reaching the Eastern Conference Finals last postseason, they were embarrassed by the eventual champion New York Knicks, getting swept after a historic collapse in Game One.
They have every reason to load up, heading into a pivotal season. One more disappointing exit with this currently-constructed core could send them down a dark path.
The East is only getting better. It's already going to be tough to compete in it next season, but if they bring in Jonathan Kuminga, even after signing Mario Hezonja, they'll be doing themselves a favor.
It's a risk worth taking, and it's why they're not, at all, out of the race.
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