During the early summer, Golden State Warriors supporters have been growing increasingly impatient as their team remains notably inactive in free agency. After star player Stephen Curry suffered a playoff injury that revealed the squad’s need for reinforced talent, many expected swift frontline action. Instead, rival teams have made significant roster improvements while the Warriors have largely stood still.
Among all the complexities influencing the team’s calm approach, the focus centers on Jonathan Kuminga’s uncertain status, an issue deeply intertwined with the Warriors’ current trade strategy.
The Role of Jonathan Kuminga’s Contract Uncertainty in Team Decisions
Jonathan Kuminga, the 22-year-old forward, remains unsigned to the Warriors’ qualifying offer valued at $7.9 million, complicating Golden State’s offseason plans. His strained relationship with Head Coach Steve Kerr has left Kuminga on the trading block, yet the franchise is cautious about moving him without securing significant value. This hesitation reflects a bigger strategic picture beyond simple roster adjustments.
NBA insider Tim Kawakami suggests that the Warriors’ silence could be a calculated move positioning them for a major league-changing transaction. The franchise appears intent on leveraging Kuminga’s trade value as a stepping stone to something far more impactful.
Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Influence in Golden State’s Long-Term Planning
General Manager Mike Dunleavy is holding firm despite receiving solid offers for Kuminga, aiming to obtain the best return possible. Since Kuminga’s individual value alone won’t sway teams to part with an established superstar, the Warriors intend to accumulate multiple valuable assets from any trade involving him. Those assets could then be crucial in assembling a blockbuster trade package targeting Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Once viewed as a loyal Milwaukee Bucks cornerstone after their 2021 championship, Giannis’s future has become increasingly uncertain amid subsequent playoff disappointments. The Bucks’ elimination in the first round in three of four recent postseasons and organizational decisions such as waiving Damian Lillard have intensified speculation about Giannis’s potential departure.
The Warriors aren’t rushing to move Jonathan Kuminga unless it’s for full value — they want to keep their assets in case the market for Giannis Antetokounmpo heats up, per @timkawakami.
(h/t @fullcourtpass) pic.twitter.com/yXknFSEDD7
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) July 25, 2025
At present, Antetokounmpo has not submitted a formal trade request. Nonetheless, Milwaukee’s ongoing internal struggles and inability to build a competitive roster could eventually prompt a move. The Warriors aim to remain poised to act aggressively should that opportunity arise.
The Composition and Impact of a Potential Trade Offer for Giannis Antetokounmpo
Golden State possesses an array of skilled players able to form the foundation of a substantial trade proposal. However, acquiring valuable pieces through Kuminga’s trade remains critical because the Bucks will demand an offer reflecting Giannis’s status as their franchise’s biggest star. No trade involving him is likely to proceed without the highest caliber returns.
Meanwhile, Kuminga’s unresolved situation is also influencing moves such as the anticipated arrival of De’Anthony Melton to the Bay Area. Finalizing Kuminga’s status is essential to clarify the Warriors’ salary cap and complete pending signings.
Although the Warriors’ muted offseason activity has frustrated fans eager for immediate results, this patience could signify a strategic pause before executing transformative maneuvers. Holding onto valuable assets now may enable Golden State to pursue championship success on a much larger scale.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jonathan Kuminga untouchable?
A. Kuminga is not off-limits for trade, but the Warriors hold him in high regard.
Q. Can Jonathan Kuminga speak French?
A. Two of his cousins are professional basketball players: Emmanuel Mudiay plays in Puerto Rico, and Omari Gudul competes in Europe. Kuminga speaks French as his native language and is still learning English.