Cavaliers linked to Mavericks' $64M versatile PF with Finals experience, Jonathan Kuminga Plan B

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Cavaliers linked to Mavericks' $64M versatile PF with Finals experience, Jonathan Kuminga Plan B originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Cleveland Cavaliers are still trying to solidify their starting lineup as nothing has been finalized with Jonathan Kuminga. Cleveland has been aggressively pursuing Kuminga ever since officially missing out on LeBron James.

Kuminga is an intriguing young prospect with plenty of room to grow. The biggest obstacle, however, is the contract he is demanding.

“Jonathan Kuminga is demanding a salary in free agency exceeding $20 million annually, per The Athletic. Kuminga prefers a sign-and-trade from the Hawks over leaving outright, simply due to the added financial implications. The Cavaliers and Lakers are the finalists for Kuminga," NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.

The Cavaliers hope to insert Kuminga into the starting lineup alongside James Harden and Donovan Mitchell. Cleveland is continuing to work toward a contract agreement, and the two sides met last week.

“The Cavaliers will meet with Jonathan Kuminga about working towards finalizing a potential sign-and-trade agreement soon, per Chris Fedor. Cleveland is a main finalist for Kuminga’s services alongside the Lakers. Kuminga continues to seek a deal exceeding $20 million annually,” Sidery wrote.

However, landing Kuminga has not been an easy task. With Cleveland simply looking to add a forward, the team has also been linked to Dallas Mavericks veteran PJ Washington.

“The Cavaliers would be a team worth monitoring for PJ Washington with the Mavericks forward reportedly available on the trade market. Cleveland’s interest level may depend on how the rest of free agency plays out, but Washington’s two-way skill set would be a desirable fit,” NBA writer Jake Weinbach wrote.

Washington could benefit from a fresh start, and Cleveland would be an ideal landing spot. Harden's playmaking ability would create plenty of opportunities for Washington as a pick-and-roll threat, while his defensive versatility would also strengthen the Cavaliers on the other end of the floor.

Washington has earned $64 million throughout his NBA career. He also brings valuable NBA Finals experience after helping the Mavericks reach the championship round. As Cleveland continues its pursuit of an NBA Finals appearance, Washington could provide the two-way impact needed to help get them there.

More NBA news:

• Warriors predicted to sign $15M former first-rounder after waived by 76ers for LeBron James​

• Warriors predicted to trade Steph Curry for $451M veteran package in blockbuster deal​

• Heat, Celtics reportedly in bidding war for $342M elite shooter, 3-time All-Star, 14-year veteran​

• Lakers predicted to trade Dalton Knecht, Jake LaRavia for $36M much-needed rim protector​

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