The Atlanta Hawks are evaluating a long-term future with Jonathan Kuminga following his midseason arrival, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
Fischer reported that there is mutual interest in potentially declining Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option for the 2026-27 season to negotiate a longer contract.
The forward is currently on a two-year, $46.8 million deal and was acquired on February 5 in a trade that sent Kristaps Porzingis to Golden State.
“That’s the goal,” Kuminga said. “That’s what we’re trying to do here, what we’re trying to stamp here as a group. We talk about it every day. It starts now. We’re not waiting until next year.”
Atlanta’s front office appears to be weighing flexibility against long-term upside, a common approach when the 23-year-old wing shows growth in multiple areas.
In six games with the Hawks, Kuminga is averaging 14.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 2.7 assists while shooting 56.6% from the field and 58.3% from three-point range.
Those numbers reflect improved shot selection and efficiency, particularly in a reduced role off the bench.
The adjustment comes as Kuminga continues to manage a knee injury sustained in late January, limiting his workload but not his impact.
His fit alongside All-Star forward Jalen Johnson has also drawn attention internally.
Johnson leads the Hawks with 22.9 points, 10.5 rebounds and 8.1 assists, operating as a primary initiator, which allows Kuminga to attack secondary actions and transition opportunities.
“His mindset … JK’s just like a dog ready to be unleashed,” Johnson said. “You can tell, just how he’s working out, how he’s approaching his days. He’s ready to go. He’s ready to do what it takes to win. And show the rest of the world that.”
Atlanta has surged into the playoff picture with a 38-31 record and an 11-game winning streak, ranking eighth in the Eastern Conference.
That momentum aligns with Kuminga’s stated desire for a competitive environment after his departure from Golden State.
“I want to be a winner as much as I can, as bad as I can,” Kuminga said. “I want to compete. Certain things, it’s life. You’re gonna get thrown a lot of things. You gotta believe.”
Declining the option would create room for a multi-year structure, while retaining it offers short-term certainty but delays a longer commitment.
Kuminga’s age, efficiency in Atlanta’s system and ability to contribute without high usage all factor into that calculation.
His early production suggests a role that complements the team’s current core, especially in lineups that prioritize pace, length and scoring versatility.
