The Golden State Warriors have faced setbacks in this free agency period and key roster moves ahead of the upcoming NBA season, largely due to one particular case: Jonathan Kuminga. The young star is becoming increasingly firm in what he wants but remains far from reaching an agreement with the franchise.
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, not much has changed recently in Kuminga’s situation with the Warriors. He continues to hold the same stance regarding Golden State’s two-year, $45 million offer.
However, the Warriors remain persistent. Initially, Golden State presented the deal to Kuminga’s camp as a tradeable agreement that could satisfy both sides’ long-term interests once he becomes eligible to be traded again in January. This is why the Warriors want a team option in the second NBA season and have requested Kuminga waive his no-trade clause.
Kuminga has made it clear that he is not interested in a team-friendly deal. He rejects the idea of signing a contract that would make him more easily tradable midseason or limit his control over his own career. His camp is pushing for a commitment that reflects his value as a future building block, rather than a contract heavily tilted in the Warriors’ favor.
Meanwhile, Kuminga’s representation has proposed a three-year, $82 million contract, which the Warriors have resisted. As of last weekend, no progress toward a compromise had been made.
“So, everything sits in the same spot it did 10 days ago. The Warriors have not increased their offer, and Kuminga has indicated to those close to him that the $7.9 million qualifying offer is more appealing than Golden State’s current proposal. Something has to give before the October 1 deadline,” Slater reported.
Although the Warriors and Kuminga appear to be inching closer to a deal, there is clear tension within the front office. The relationship between the player and the team seems increasingly strained.
Kuminga, beyond seeking a bigger paycheck, is after greater media recognition and a more significant role in the team’s system—something that’s hard to come by with stars like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green dominating the lineup. Given the current situation, he will have to accept this reality and make the most of any opportunities that arise.
Despite the Warriors’ decision to hold onto Kuminga, questions remain about whether they will add key players ahead of the new season or stick with the current roster, potentially underutilizing the final years of Curry’s prime. With All-Star Jimmy Butler alongside him and Al Horford waiting in the wings, much depends on how the front office navigates the offseason.