A major three-team trade involving the Atlanta Hawks, Los Angeles Clippers, and Golden State Warriors could reshape key rosters ahead of the upcoming NBA season, centering on the Jonathan Kuminga Clippers trade. The hypothetical deal would send Jonathan Kuminga to the Clippers and Bogdan Bogdanovic to the Warriors, offering each team distinct advantages and challenges moving forward.
Offseason Moves Set the Stage for Potential Trade
As the NBA free agency period slows, several teams have made strategic decisions that impact next season’s dynamics. The Atlanta Hawks have actively strengthened their lineup by acquiring guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker from Minnesota in a sign-and-trade deal worth four years and $62 million, alongside signing guard Luke Kennard to a one-year contract. These moves come after adding Kristaps Porzingis and drafting Asa Newell, signaling Atlanta’s aim to compete in a tough Eastern Conference plagued by injuries. Despite these additions, the Hawks still face roster questions, particularly needing depth at small forward, a third center, or additional ball handling. They currently hold one roster spot left after signing Nikola Durisic and Caleb Houstan to contracts.
Meanwhile, the Golden State Warriors have maintained a low profile in free agency. Their focus has been on the uncertain future of restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, who, despite showing potential, has yet to fully prove himself. The scarcity of salary cap space across the league — with Brooklyn Nets among the few exceptions — complicates possible moves for Kuminga, keeping his fate unresolved for now.
The Los Angeles Clippers, perceived as under-the-radar, have quietly improved their roster. The club secured Brook Lopez on favorable terms and added John Collins from Utah to bolster their frontcourt. More recently, after Bradley Beal’s buyout from Phoenix, the Clippers seized the opportunity to acquire him. Though built to contend immediately, the Clippers face an aging core and could seek younger talent to eventually lead the franchise once Kawhi Leonard and James Harden depart.
Proposed Terms of the Three-Team Trade
This speculative trade envisions the following exchanges:
Atlanta Hawks Receive: Kris Dunn
Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Jonathan Kuminga (signed to a three-year, $52.5 million contract), Gui Santos, and a 2026 second-round pick (from Atlanta, via Boston)
Golden State Warriors Receive: Bogdan Bogdanovic, Kobe Brown, a 2026 second-round pick (from LAC, via Memphis), a 2031 second-round pick (via LAC), and a 2032 second-round pick (via LAC)
Why Each Team Might Embrace This Deal
Atlanta Hawks would gain Kris Dunn, regarded as one of the top perimeter defenders in the league, able to support Trae Young by providing solid defense and supplemental ball handling. With Dyson Daniels already anchoring perimeter defense, Dunn could elevate the Hawks’ defensive capabilities, an area they might have previously overlooked. Their offense is already potent enough to compensate for Dunn’s limited scoring, making him a complementary roster addition in pursuit of Eastern Conference success.
Los Angeles Clippers benefit by acquiring youthful athleticism in Jonathan Kuminga, who, while not yet a star, holds untapped potential that could flourish in a new role outside Golden State. Alongside Kuminga, signing him to a sizable three-year contract reflects the Clippers’ commitment to developing promising talent. Additionally, Gui Santos and a future draft pick add depth to their roster’s future. With Bradley Beal on board, Bogdanovic becomes expendable, especially considering his defensive decline when his shooting is off. This trade could help the Clippers refresh their core with younger players as they plan ahead beyond their veteran leaders.
Golden State Warriors would add Bogdan Bogdanovic, an offensive weapon who was among the best bench scorers two seasons ago and has improved following his move to the Clippers. His ability to take smart shots alongside Stephen Curry could provide much needed scoring punch off the bench. These fresh offensive options might be key for the Warriors as they try to remain competitive in a challenging Western Conference.
Challenges and Concerns for Each Team
For the Hawks, questions remain about roster fit, especially whether they require more ball handlers when they might be better served by another small forward or center. Plus, it remains uncertain if the Clippers would be willing to part ways with Kris Dunn, complicating the deal’s feasibility.
The Clippers take a gamble in offering Kuminga a large contract despite his inconsistent performances and incomplete development. His role in the current squad may not blend seamlessly, and there is risk he may not reach the ceiling the Clippers hope for, leaving them with a costly young player who struggles to find his role.
The Warriors face the risk of bringing in Bogdanovic, whose defensive struggles can become a liability, particularly in playoff scenarios where defensive intensity is paramount. If his shooting falters on any given night, his overall impact diminishes, raising concerns about whether they might find a better trade return for Kuminga elsewhere.
Looking Ahead: Implications for the NBA Landscape
If such a trade occurs, fans would witness significant shifts in team dynamics. The Jonathan Kuminga Clippers trade would symbolize a renewed focus on youth and rebuilding for a franchise aiming to sustain its competitiveness beyond established stars. Atlanta’s pursuit of defensive solidity with Kris Dunn highlights their intent to bolster all facets of their game as they contend in the Eastern Conference.
For Golden State, acquiring Bogdanovic represents a gamble on maintaining offensive firepower at the possible cost of defensive stability, reflecting the difficult balance the Warriors face in navigating transition while remaining title contenders.
While this trade remains speculative and meant to provoke discussion on potential moves rather than reflect official plans, it underscores the intricate and sometimes uneasy decisions teams must grapple with as they juggle talent, contracts, and championship aspirations.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jonathan Kuminga untouchable?
A. Kuminga can be traded, yet he is highly valued by the Warriors.