The Golden State Warriors’ plans for Jonathan Kuminga are a major topic during the 2025 NBA Free Agency period. Many expect the Warriors to move the former No. 7 overall pick through a sign-and-trade deal, with interest in Kuminga growing among multiple teams. According to Anthony Slater from The Athletic, six teams are showing varying levels of enthusiasm for acquiring him. The Sacramento Kings and Washington Wizards lead the pack, with Sacramento offering packages including two second-round picks, Devin Carter, and Dario Šarić, which the Warriors declined. Washington has also expressed strong interest, making the competition for Kuminga intense. Early contenders like the Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat are still in the mix, with Chicago having explored trade talks before the last deadline, and Miami aiming to remain competitive after missing out on Kevin Durant.
Last week, Golden State extended a $7.9 million qualifying offer to Kuminga, making him a restricted free agent. The Warriors can match any offer he receives, but sign-and-trade options remain plausible and potentially beneficial if it means adding experienced players to their roster. With stars like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green forming their core, the Warriors could use a consistent and proven player like Kuminga to strengthen their championship-contending lineup.
Though Kuminga has yet to secure a consistent role with the Warriors, his upside is undeniable. After being out of the rotation last season, he returned following Curry’s injury and finished strong, averaging 24.3 points in the final playoff games against the Minnesota Timberwolves. As a 22-year-old with a promising early career, Kuminga is an athletic talent who contributed to the Warriors’ 2022 NBA Championship and posted career-best averages of 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in the 2023-24 season. If no suitable deal emerges, the Warriors have the option to keep him for another season or trade him later for a more reliable player.
Fan Take: This potential move is crucial for basketball fans because Jonathan Kuminga represents the next generation of NBA talent that could shape the league’s future. How the Warriors handle his contract and trade prospects will not only impact their championship aspirations but could also set a precedent for how rising stars are managed in the league.
