Jonathan Kuminga is now officially on the path to restricted free agency after the Golden State Warriors tendered him a $7.9 million qualifying offer. The Warriors now face a crucial decision on whether to retain the young forward or move in a different direction.
Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported that Golden State is wary of long-term financial commitments despite Kuminga’s upside. According to Siegel, the star forward is aiming for a hefty contract that pays him over $30 million per year.
“The Warriors have made it clear that they want to maintain financial flexibility moving forward. Keeping Kuminga would come at a significant cost for Golden State, as he wants a deal that pays him over $30 million per year, sources said,” Siegel reported.
“Time is running out for the Warriors to decide on Kuminga, one that will have a direct impact on their chances of contending for a championship during the 2025-26 season,” he added.
Kuminga’s value within the Warriors system took a hit after Golden State made a blockbuster trade for Jimmy Butler. At the time of the deal, Kuminga was sidelined with an ankle injury. Upon his return, he struggled to reclaim consistent minutes. He averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 47 regular-season appearances.
NBA Insider Predicts Jonathan Kuminga’s Exit From Warriors Via Sign-and-Trade
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NBA insider Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report offered insight into Jonathan Kuminga’s potential next destination. Pincus suggested that a sign-and-trade could be the most likely outcome for both parties, and the Chicago Bulls could be a strong landing spot.
“The buzz from last offseason was that Kuminga wanted an extension starting in the $35 million range, greater than what the Warriors were willing to pay (perhaps no higher than $30 million). After the Jimmy Butler trade, Kuminga struggled to stay healthy and found his role diminished,” Pincus wrote.
Free agency is set to begin Monday. Whether he remains in Golden State or finds a new home through a sign-and-trade will remain to be seen.
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