The situation between the Golden State Warriors and forward Jonathan Kuminga remains one of the biggest unresolved storylines of the NBA offseason. While speculation about a potential departure continues to circulate, no concrete move has been made. A new team recently entered the mix as a possible destination, but that opportunity ultimately dissolved due to another transaction.
Forward Jonathan Kuminga has spent much of the summer at the center of persistent trade rumors. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, Kuminga and his camp were hopeful for a sign-and-trade opportunity with the Chicago Bulls.
That interest was mutual. While the Sacramento Kings had initially shown the most external interest, the Bulls emerged as a legitimate landing spot. However, negotiations involving restricted free agent Josh Giddey and a significant gap in salary expectations prevented the deal from moving forward.
Speculation intensified when online chatter linked Warriors center Nikola Vucevic to a possible swap with Chicago. But as of now, Kuminga remains with the Warriors. That may not be his preference, though, as other teams are reportedly monitoring the situation.
One of the latest franchises to show interest in Kuminga is the Phoenix Suns. While the team continues to build around star guard Devin Booker—who recently signed an extension—the departure of Bradley Beal opens the door for roster changes.
In their effort to become younger and more athletic, the Suns have already begun reshaping the roster. According to Jake Fischer, the franchise has now set its sights on Kuminga.
“Fresh off completing a buyout of Bradley Beal this week, enabling the Suns to waive-and-stretch the hefty contract possessed by the three-time NBA All-Star guard, they have contacted both Kuminga’s representation and the Warriors to make their fondness for the bouncy swingman known,” Fischer reported.
Fischer also noted that “the Suns, to be clear, do not appear to possess the sort of draft capital or players that Golden State is believed to be seeking in exchange for Kuminga.” That reality complicates the Suns’ pursuit, although the Warriors may soon feel pressure to make a deal.
Golden State’s delay and lack of urgency in trade talks have left the franchise without many options on the market. On the other hand, Kuminga could be a strong fit in Phoenix, providing much-needed wing depth and athleticism. It’s still unclear whether the Warriors intend to keep Kuminga or are simply waiting for the right offer to move him.