The contract drama surrounding Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors might have been just another offseason subplot-if it weren’t for Giannis Antetokounmpo looming in the background. Yes, the Warriors must untangle the Kuminga situation if they hope to chase the Greek Freak.
Rumors about Antetokounmpo leaving the Milwaukee Bucks have swirled for months. While neither party has publicly signaled a potential split, multiple insiders suggest the two-time MVP could eventually request a trade.
With that in mind, several franchises are closely monitoring Antetokounmpo’s every move, eager to pounce should an opening arise. One such team is Golden State-but according to CBS Sports’ Jasmyn Wimbish, the Warriors first need to resolve Kuminga’s future.
What’s Kuminga’s status in Golden State?
Kuminga’s rookie contract expired at the end of last season, making him a restricted free agent. As Wimbish reported, the team hasn’t yet indicated what its next move will be.
She noted Golden State may be aiming “to get the most in return for Kuminga in case they need to use that asset to try to make a run at the Greek Freak.” Alternatively, the team might re-sign him “to a fair deal in order to trade him in a package that lands them Antetokounmpo.”
However, Wimbish also highlighted that the Bucks are unlikely to let go of their franchise cornerstone. With Damian Lillard’s departure and Myles Turner’s arrival, Milwaukee seems intent on building a title contender around Giannis.
Golden State’s high-stakes gamble
Nevertheless, all signs point to the Warriors lining up their pieces for a potential move-possibly in December or by the February trade deadline. But there’s risk in waiting.
According to Wimbish, Kuminga’s unresolved situation is delaying other key transactions, such as acquiring needed reinforcements. Veterans like Al Horford, Seth Curry, and DeAnthony Melton have been on the Warriors’ radar for a while. Yet, until the Kuminga matter is sorted, those deals are unlikely to move forward.
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