The Golden State Warriors have been relatively quiet during the NBA offseason, making no major roster moves so far. Still, the team has remained in the spotlight due to ongoing speculation surrounding one of Stephen Curry’s key teammates — forward Jonathan Kuminga. According to reports, the franchise has now made a definitive decision about his future.
Despite showcasing his value when called upon — particularly during the playoffs when Curry was sidelined with a hamstring injury — Kuminga appears to be on the outside of head coach Steve Kerr’s rotation plans. The 22-year-old forward averaged 15.3 points per game during the postseason, stepping up in a bigger role for the Warriors.
While there had been speculation about Kuminga potentially landing with the Sacramento Kings, Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reports that a deal between the two franchises never came close to materializing.
“The Sacramento Kings, who have made it known around the league that they are interested in the young forward, were never close to finalizing a sign-and-trade with Golden State, sources said,” Siegel reported.
Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors drives against the Houston Rockets during the second half of a quarterfinal game in the NBA Emirates Cup. (Alex Slitz/Getty Images)
Siegel adds that Kuminga is now expected to re-sign with the Warriors — with the mutual understanding that he will likely be traded before the February deadline.
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“In Kuminga’s case, a return to the Warriors continues to be likely,” the report stated. “Ultimately, the expectation from rival teams around the NBA is that Kuminga will go back to the Warriors with the mutual understanding that he will be moved before the trade deadline in February”.
Kuminga’s unresolved situation is reportedly one of the main reasons the Warriors have not finalized any other offseason transactions. “Until Kuminga’s situation is figured out, the Warriors can’t make any other moves since his contract will push them close to the first apron,” Siegel added.
Two names linked to the Warriors in free agency are veteran big man Al Horford and guard De’Anthony Melton. While there had been talk of Horford potentially retiring, Siegel reports that there is a strong chance the former Celtics forward will return for his 19th NBA season — possibly in a Golden State uniform.
