Jonathan Kuminga‘s lack of prominence with the Golden State Warriors has reportedly led him to consider leaving the team. Despite not having his best season, he has drawn attention from two NBA franchises: the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings. As offers for the talented player emerge, the Warriors have reportedly made a significant decision about his future.
Although Jonathan Kuminga has reportedly expressed interest in joining the Sacramento Kings, NBA insider Tim Kawakami reports that the Golden State Warriors have decided not to trade the young star this summer. This decision leaves Kuminga with a choice between accepting the franchise’s current offer or the $7.9 million qualifying offer.
Additionally, Kawakami reports that franchise owner Joseph Lacob’s opinion of Kuminga’s talent significantly influenced the decision. Lacob is reportedly eager to patiently oversee his development within the team. Given this, the 22-year-old talent will have another opportunity to convince head coach Steve Kerr to grant him more playing time.
While the franchise chose to retain him, Brett Siegel reports that the possibility of his joining the Kings in the near future remains on the table, with the team still expressing a keen interest in his skills. Furthermore, he dispels the notion that his potential move to Sacramento is contingent solely on lifting the protections on the first-round pick offered.
Could the Warriors lose Jonathan Kuminga in free agency by not making a move this offseason?
The Golden State Warriors’ decision to retain Jonathan Kuminga has stirred dissatisfaction among the franchise’s fanbase. The root of the concern is that keeping him for one more season might leave him open to explore other opportunities as unrestricted free agent in 2026. Many fans argue that trading him now could be mutually beneficial for both the player and the team.
Amidst this debate, Tim Kawakami has reported that both the Warriors and Kuminga are considering a short-term contract that would facilitate a future trade. However, this approach poses a significant risk for Jonathan. Such a deal could confine him to another season with the Warriors in a vague role, potentially decreasing interest from some franchises.