The Golden State Warriors have remained inactive during this NBA offseason, notably as the only team yet to sign any free agents. Meanwhile, they have seen Kevon Looney leave the franchise to join another team. Among their players, the key free agent in focus is forward Jonathan Kuminga, who is currently a restricted free agent amid ongoing contract negotiations.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Position in the Warriors’ Negotiations
Jonathan Kuminga, 22 years old, has been a significant contributor to the Warriors, averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists last season. Despite his promising stats and young age, Kuminga has not agreed to a new contract with Golden State, nor has he signed elsewhere. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Kuminga is not in a hurry to finalize a deal, and he has declined current offers from the Warriors. In addition, the Warriors have been approached with multiple sign-and-trade proposals involving him, adding complexity to his situation.
Kendrick Perkins Supports Kuminga’s Demand for a Better Deal
Former NBA player and analyst Kendrick Perkins, who spent 14 years in the league, voiced strong support for Kuminga’s position. Perkins emphasized the young forward’s value, urging the Warriors to match Kuminga’s contract expectations. He stated,
“That’s what the Warriors need to do. They need to value this young man because he’s elite.”
—Kendrick Perkins, NBA Analyst
Perkins also questioned the team’s leadership for not fully embracing Kuminga’s potential.
“My question to the Warriors, the organization, and Steve Kerr is, why hasn’t Steve Kerr embraced this young man? Why hasn’t he wrapped his arms around him as a guy that y’all drafted with the No. 7 pick?”
—Kendrick Perkins, NBA Analyst
Kuminga’s Playoff Performance Highlights His Potential
Perkins highlighted Kuminga’s impressive showing in last season’s playoffs, particularly in the games following Steph Curry’s injury during the second round against the Minnesota Timberwolves. Kuminga stepped up significantly, averaging 20.8 points in that series and demonstrating his capability as a scorer and a defender. Perkins added,
“When Steph Curry went out last postseason, the backend of the games against the Timberwolves in the playoffs, [Kuminga] did his thing. So you’re developing this young stud who, to me, has an All-NBA-type ceiling. What is the problem?”
—Kendrick Perkins, NBA Analyst
Implications for the Warriors’ Future and Contract Decisions
The Warriors face a critical decision regarding Kuminga’s future on the team. As a restricted free agent with evident upside on both ends of the floor, securing him with a competitive contract could solidify Golden State’s roster moving forward. The ongoing negotiations and multiple trade offers suggest the Warriors are weighing their options carefully. However, experts like Perkins believe investing in Kuminga is crucial if the team wants to maintain its long-term competitiveness.