Thursday, October 2, 2025
Related Post to the Topic
Related Posts to the Sport

Jonathan Kuminga NBA Free Agency Stalemate: Top 10 Remaining Players’ Surprising Landing Spots Revealed

The 2025 NBA free agency has unfolded with numerous unexpected moves, yet several prominent players, including Jonathan Kuminga, remain without contracts as July nears its end. The Jonathan Kuminga NBA free agency situation has been particularly tense, with ongoing negotiations and no clear resolution in sight.

Among the remaining free agents are both restricted and unrestricted players whose futures are still in question. This article highlights the top 10 players yet to find new teams, alongside their most probable destinations as the league moves deeper into the offseason.

Veteran Sharpshooter Seth Curry Poised for Spurs Role

Seth Curry, known for his impressive career 43.3% accuracy from three-point range, is expected to join the San Antonio Spurs despite signs of declining athleticism at age 34. Although his defensive abilities have long been questioned, Curry’s ability to spread the floor remains valuable.

Last season with the Charlotte Hornets, Curry averaged 6.5 points per game, knocking down a career-best 45.6% from beyond the arc while playing roughly 15 minutes per night. The Spurs, focusing on floor spacing, see Curry as a low-risk, veteran minimum signing capable of delivering reliable perimeter shooting off the bench.

Experienced Alec Burks Could Bolster Knicks Bench Depth

Alec Burks, approaching his 15th NBA season, is anticipated to return to the New York Knicks, where he has played twice before. The 34-year-old performed well for the Miami Heat last season, averaging 7.3 points in under 18 minutes per game and delivering several 20-point performances.

Jonathan Kuminga
Image of: Jonathan Kuminga

With new head coach Mike Brown likely to utilize a deeper rotation than his predecessor, Tom Thibodeau, the Knicks might add Burks to complement recent signings Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. Burks would provide reliable scoring off the bench and valuable insurance against injuries.

Gary Payton II Expected to Return to Warriors as Key Defensive Wing

Gary Payton II’s future in the NBA seems tied closely to the Golden State Warriors, where he initially established himself from 2020 to 2022. After a brief and unsteady tenure with the Portland Trail Blazers, Payton was traded back to Golden State and has since thrived in their system.

Known for his tenacious defense, Payton offers quickness and savvy on that end while fitting well in Coach Steve Kerr’s scheme. Offensively, Payton operates as a creative passer and screener, finishing at the rim and occasionally connecting on corner threes. Likely to receive a veteran minimum contract, his return would reinforce the Warriors’ wing depth.

Russell Westbrook Aims to Revive Career with Miami Heat

After an uneven season splitting time with the Denver Nuggets, Russell Westbrook remains on the market. Despite his fluctuating performances, Westbrook’s relentless energy and explosive playmaking keep him in demand, particularly with teams seeking veteran point guard depth.

The Miami Heat are one such team, distinguished by a culture built around maximizing player strengths. Under Head Coach Erik Spoelstra and President Pat Riley, Miami hopes to harness Westbrook’s abilities while managing his weaknesses, making the Heat a strong potential landing spot.

Brooklyn Nets Likely to Retain Scoring Guard Cam Thomas

Restricted free agent Cam Thomas appears headed for a return to the Brooklyn Nets, despite limited interest elsewhere. Thomas, known for his scoring talent, averaged 22.5 and 24 points per game in recent seasons but lacks impact in other facets of the game.

Given Brooklyn’s rebuilding status and cap flexibility, the team seems prepared to offer Thomas a multi-year contract at a reasonable salary to maintain his offensive talents as part of their core going forward.

Malcolm Brogdon Could Provide Stability Backcourt for Bucks

Malcolm Brogdon, once the 2019 Sixth Man of the Year, is expected to return to the Milwaukee Bucks where his steady guard play is needed. Since winning the award, Brogdon has been traded twice, landing with rebuilding franchises that offered limited roles.

At 32, Brogdon remains an effective reserve who excels defensively and maintains a career 38.8% three-point mark. The Bucks, having waived Damian Lillard and positioning Kevin Porter Jr. as a starter, require veteran depth. Brogdon’s familiarity with Milwaukee and skill set make him a fitting candidate to fill that role, potentially moving Porter back to the bench.

Al Horford Still a Strong Match for Golden State Warriors

Al Horford’s signing remains anticipated by the Golden State Warriors, pending resolution of Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation. Other suitors, like the Los Angeles Lakers, and retirement considerations have emerged, but Golden State appears best suited for the veteran big man.

Horford’s shooting ability, including a career 37.7% from three, aligns well with the Warriors’ offense, offering needed floor spacing. His vast experience, spanning 18 NBA seasons, would provide leadership and enhance the team’s interior presence after losing Kevon Looney in free agency. Stephen Curry would also benefit from Horford’s shooting as a center, potentially elevating Curry’s offensive effectiveness.

Quentin Grimes Projected to Stay with Philadelphia 76ers

After a midseason trade from the Dallas Mavericks, Quentin Grimes impressed in his 28 games with the Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. His shooting percentages of 46.9% from the field and 37.3% from three enhanced his appeal on the market.

At 25 years old, Grimes fits Philadelphia’s timeline to develop a strong backcourt core. The 76ers and Grimes seem poised to agree on a moderate contract, keeping him in Philadelphia where he has emerged as a crucial contributor. While a short-term deal is possible to revisit contract value in coming years, his next contract likely keeps him with the 76ers.

Jonathan Kuminga and Golden State Warriors Remain at an Impasse

The ongoing deadlock between Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors continues to dominate headlines. Head Coach Steve Kerr has openly expressed concerns that Kuminga does not fit the Warriors’ style, leading to friction during negotiations. Despite his youth and talents at 22, Kuminga has not secured a substantial offer as a restricted free agent.

The Sacramento Kings have emerged as a top candidate to acquire Kuminga via a sign-and-trade, contingent upon creating cap space by offloading contracts. Joining Sacramento would offer Kuminga a fresh start, free from the current complications in Golden State.

However, no agreement appears imminent, with negotiations stalled and both Kuminga’s camp and the Warriors far apart on contract terms or trade conditions. The situation highlights broader challenges around roster fit and player valuation in restricted free agency.

Josh Giddey’s Contract Dispute Delays Chicago Bulls Agreement

Josh Giddey’s restricted free agency is unresolved, contributing to another stall in Chicago Bulls’ offseason plans. Having been traded to the Bulls last summer in exchange for Alex Caruso, Giddey is expected to remain with Chicago but contract discussions have yet to produce a deal.

His rookie season with the Bulls culminated in impressive performances, regularly posting 20 points, double-digit assists, and strong rebounding. Comparisons to Toronto Raptors’ Immanuel Quickley—who recently secured a five-year, $162.5 million contract—underscore Giddey’s own contract aspirations. Giddey’s combination of size and passing ability arguably positions him for a similar deal.

The negotiation impasse could extend for weeks or months, as neither side is willing to adjust their stance, leaving Giddey’s near-term future uncertain and marking one of the offseason’s most high-profile stalemates.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Is Jonathan Kuminga untouchable?

A. Kuminga could be traded, but the Warriors consider him very important.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here