The Golden State Warriors are currently navigating a difficult period in securing a contract extension for 22-year-old forward Jonathan Kuminga amid restricted free agency negotiations. This offseason, the team has grappled with balancing Kuminga’s rising value against their salary cap strategy after his strong postseason showing.
Kuminga stood out during the 2024-25 NBA playoffs, especially in the second round when he led the Warriors in scoring while star guard Steph Curry was sidelined due to injury. These performances elevated Kuminga’s profile but also complicated contract talks, as his camp is now demanding a salary reflecting his increased impact on the court.
Disparity Between Kuminga’s Contract Demands and Warriors’ Offers
Jonathan Kuminga’s representatives are seeking a deal with an average annual value exceeding $30 million, reflecting his recent playoff contributions and potential as a developing star. However, reports reveal Kuminga is reluctant to remain with the Warriors, adding complexity to the negotiations.
“Kuminga’s camp want a big deal in the $30M+ range and don’t want to be back with Warriors. Golden State wants a small deal in $20M range where they can flip him because there’s no market. Dubs still holding out that a S&T with Bulls can happen. Ayo Dosunmu is a good player.” —Brett Siegel, NBA Reporter
While Kuminga’s camp pushes for a significant salary increase, the Warriors appear unwilling to meet those expectations. Their approach has been to offer considerably less and explore alternatives such as sign-and-trade agreements that could facilitate moving Kuminga to another team. These options are viewed as preferable, given the limited market interest for Kuminga at his asking price.
Warriors’ Best Recorded Offer and Potential Trade Scenarios
Insider NBA reporter Marc Stein disclosed that the Warriors’ most competitive proposal to Kuminga is a two-year contract totaling approximately $40 million, well below the $30 million-per-year figure sought by Kuminga’s camp. This contract offer reflects Golden State’s intent to retain some flexibility while testing trade possibilities.
“Word is that the Warriors’ best offers to Kuminga have topped out in the two-year $40 million range,”
Stein noted.
“Kuminga’s camp has continued to seek out sign-and-trade opportunities, with Sacramento and Phoenix still regarded as the most determined suitors, but Golden State is said to want a first-round pick in any sign-and-trade deal. The Suns do not have an available first-round pick to offer.”
The Warriors’ requirement for a first-round pick in any sign-and-trade agreement has reportedly stalled potential deals, especially with teams like the Phoenix Suns lacking the necessary draft assets to meet Golden State’s conditions.
Ongoing Negotiations and the Road Ahead for Kuminga and the Warriors
Both Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors remain far from finalizing a contract resolution, with a notable gap between the player’s financial expectations and the team’s offers. The Warriors continue to hold out hope for a trade deal that satisfies their requirements while providing Kuminga with an opportunity elsewhere.
As restricted free agency progresses, the resolution of Kuminga’s future will significantly influence the Warriors’ roster flexibility and strategic planning. Finding a workable agreement or trade will be crucial for Golden State as they build toward the next NBA season, while Kuminga seeks a contract and team that suit his career ambitions.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Jonathan Kuminga untouchable?
A. Monte Poole believes there’s a high chance Golden State will keep Jonathan Kuminga during the offseason. However, this doesn’t make him untradeable. Kuminga will soon become a restricted free agent.
Q. Can Jonathan Kuminga speak French?
A. Two of his cousins are professional basketball players: Emmanuel Mudiay plays in Puerto Rico, and Omari Gudul is in Europe. Kuminga’s native language is French, and he is still working on his English skills.