The Golden State Warriors are considering a significant trade proposal involving the Sacramento Kings as they try to address the uncertain future of Jonathan Kuminga, their 22-year-old forward who is pushing for a change. The Warriors are reportedly interested in acquiring Kings’ forward Keegan Murray and guard Keon Ellis through a sign-and-trade deal that could reshape both teams.
Targeting Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis
The focus for the Warriors lies heavily on Keegan Murray, the Kings’ 2022 first-round draft pick, who has demonstrated strong shooting abilities with a 37.2% three-point shooting average across his first three NBA seasons. Murray’s shoot-first mentality and perimeter scoring fit well within Golden State’s offense-centered style, particularly given his peak of 41.1% three-point accuracy during his rookie campaign.
In addition to Murray, the Warriors are interested in Keon Ellis, known for his defensive capabilities and frequently assigned to guard top opponents’ scorers. Ellis’s relatively low salary of $2.3 million for the upcoming season offers the Warriors a financially viable option to strengthen their roster. Nevertheless, the Kings have not yet expressed openness to parting with either player, even as Kuminga voices his wish to leave Golden State.
Previous Trade Proposals and Warrior’s Rebuffs
Earlier trade discussions included an offer from the Kings involving Devin Carter, Dario Saric, and a protected first-round draft pick in exchange for Kuminga. The Warriors declined this proposal, believing the assets did not compensate adequately for Kuminga’s potential. Another name brought up by the Kings was Malik Monk, but the Warriors remain disinterested due to Monk’s escalating salary, which would pay him $18.8 million next season and $21.6 million in the last year of his contract.
Salary Cap Challenges in Facilitating the Trade
The NBA’s salary cap rules add complexity to any potential trade. Kuminga’s outgoing salary counts as only 50% of his actual value under the league’s base year compensation rule, requiring the Warriors to carefully navigate financial constraints. Unless the Warriors sign Kuminga to a contract above $30 million annually, they must explore creative salary matching strategies to make a trade feasible.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Desire for a New Role
Kuminga is eager to escape what he sees as a restricted role within Golden State’s stacked lineup. Both Sacramento and the Phoenix Suns are among the leading teams actively pursuing him, offering the promise of increased playing time and a chance to become a starter. These opportunities align with Kuminga’s goal to maximize his development and impact in the NBA.
Stephen Kerr, the Warriors’ head coach, has acknowledged that Kuminga’s current role is uncertain, especially as Kuminga was outside the rotation during the playoffs until injuries thrust him back onto the court. Kerr emphasized the intense competition for minutes on a team filled with established stars.
Kuminga’s Strong Finish in Playoff Appearances
Although given limited minutes, Kuminga impressed in the final four games of the season by averaging 24.3 points on a remarkable 55.4% shooting percentage, demonstrating his scoring ability and capacity to stretch defenses with his floor spacing. Despite this promise, Kerr’s focus remains on overall team success, underscoring the delicate balance between nurturing young talent and pursuing championships.
Implications for the Warriors and NBA Offseason Prospects
As the Warriors evaluate their options amid the high-stakes nature of trade negotiations, the potential acquisition of Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis could significantly shift Golden State’s roster makeup. With Kuminga’s future uncertain and teams like the Kings and Suns showing strong interest, these developments mark a pivotal moment for the Warriors franchise.
The decision to engage in a trade will affect not only Golden State’s championship ambitions but also the career trajectories of all players involved, especially Kuminga as he looks to establish himself in a new environment with bigger roles. The evolving NBA offseason remains a critical period for the Warriors as they juggle competitive aspirations with roster flexibility and player satisfaction.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What is Keon Ellis’ salary?
A. Sacramento has settled an important matter for their offseason. The Kings chose to keep Keon Ellis for 2025-26, securing him for a salary of $2.3 million.