The Golden State Warriors appear poised to retain Jonathan Kuminga for the start of the upcoming NBA season, but it comes with a twist, as his future with the team beyond February remains uncertain.
As the franchise looks to balance its aging core with long-term flexibility, the 22-year-old from the Democratic Republic of Congo’s contract demands and rising trade value may ultimately lead to his departure before the midseason trade deadline.
According to a report from an NBA insider, Golden State intends to re-sign the forward this offseason. However, sources indicate the organization and player may enter into a mutual understanding: his time with the Warriors could be temporary.
“In Kuminga‘s case,” Brett Siegel reports. “A return to the Warriors continues to be likely.
“Various high-ranking members of the organization would like Kuminga back, including owner Joe Lacob, sources said.
“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.”
This strategy would serve multiple purposes. For the Warriors, it preserves the opportunity to continue showcasing Kuminga’s growth while maintaining trade leverage. For Kuminga, it offers a chance to increase his market value heading into a pivotal stage in his career.
Why isn’t Kuminga being traded?
The seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has developed steadily across his first four seasons and in the 2024/25 campaign, he averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game and even stepped up when Steph Curry was injured.
His increased role and reliability were particularly apparent during moments when Steph was sidelined, demonstrating his readiness to take on larger responsibilities, making him an attractive trade prospect.
With this upward trajectory, Kuminga is reportedly seeking a contract worth more than $30 million per season, and while the Warriors recognize his potential, they are also facing financial and strategic pressure to remain flexible.
That could lead to his departure. However, despite efforts to explore trade scenarios this offseason, Golden State has found little traction. But reports do suggest a total of five teams have looked at the player.
Teams including the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, and Charlotte Hornets have reportedly shown varying degrees of interest, but no concrete negotiations have advanced.
So, without a clear trade partner, holding onto Kuminga temporarily while continuing to explore options appears to be the organization’s preferred course.
Golden State‘s decision to proceed with a short-term extension followed by a potential trade reflects its current transitional phase as the front office is tasked with navigating a delicate balance between competing in the present and planning for a post-Curry era.
Retaining Kuminga for the first half of the season offers a compromise that allows both development and flexibility as the team embarks on Summer League matchups, with a clash against the Utah Jazz on July 13.
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