NBA Trade Rumors: Jonathan Kuminga Trade to Suns or Kings ‘Unlikely’ as Warriors Boost Contract Offer
The likelihood of Jonathan Kuminga being traded this offseason appears low, despite interest from the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings. As the Golden State Warriors work to finalize their roster, a sign-and-trade deal for Kuminga is reportedly “unlikely” unless either team significantly improves their offer, according to The Athletic’s Sam Amick.
Golden State has recently increased their contract proposal for Kuminga to a three-year, $75.2 million deal, ESPN insiders Anthony Slater and Shams Charania reported. The deal guarantees $48.3 million over the first two seasons, with a team option in the third year. Sources note that the agreement is more a strategic asset than a long-term partnership, signaling that the Warriors may view Kuminga as a key piece in future trade considerations.
Earlier this offseason, both the Suns and Kings were considered the leading suitors for the restricted free agent, offering packages in the $90 million range over four years, including a player option in the final season. Sacramento’s insistence on protections tied to a 2030 first-round draft pick is reportedly a major sticking point preventing a deal with the Warriors.
Kuminga’s situation is also affecting Golden State’s other offseason plans. A contract paying him roughly $22 million annually would place the team under the hard salary cap, limiting flexibility to pursue other free agents, including potential targets like Al Horford.
One potential workaround for Kuminga would be to accept his restricted free agent qualifying offer of $10.2 million and then enter unrestricted free agency next summer. While this strategy carries injury risk, it would allow him to explore the market during his age-24 season.
Training camp for the Warriors begins on September 29, with their first preseason game scheduled against the Los Angeles Lakers on October 5. Last season, Kuminga appeared in 47 games, averaging 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per contest, showcasing his potential as a versatile contributor for Golden State.
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