Jonathan Kuminga, selected seventh overall by the Golden State Warriors in 2021, has experienced a challenging start to his NBA career. While his athleticism and finishing ability are undeniable, Kuminga’s skill set has not fully aligned with the Warriors’ current style of play. This misalignment, combined with his ongoing development, has limited his impact and playing time in Golden State.
Head coach Steve Kerr has openly discussed the difficulties in utilizing Kuminga effectively within the Warriors’ roster, especially during the period when Stephen Curry is still a primary focal point. Kerr remarked in an interview with Tim Kawakami at the San Francisco Standard last May,
“And for me, I’ve been asked to win. And right now, he’s not a guy who I can say I’m going to play 38 minutes with the roster that we have.”
Challenges in Finding Playing Time with the Warriors
Kuminga’s role as a non-shooter complicates his fit, given the Warriors’ system requires floor spacing to complement stars like Curry and Klay Thompson. Comparable players such as Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green can make up for a lack of shooting with their defensive or playmaking impact, but Kuminga has yet to reach similar levels in those areas. This predicament restricts his minutes and reduces his opportunity to secure a consistent starting role.
As a result, Kuminga is exploring options that would grant him more playing time and a clearer path to becoming a starter, which has led to interest from teams like the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns. Both franchises have reportedly made sign-and-trade offers to acquire the 22-year-old forward.
Why Sacramento Kings Are Emerging as Kuminga’s Top Choice
The Sacramento Kings appear to be leading the race for Kuminga’s services. According to NBA insider Marc Spears, Kuminga is enthusiastic about joining the Kings, who have offered him a starting spot at power forward alongside teammates like Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis. Spears shared,
“He wants to go. And the Kings are offering a starting spot, power forward next to Keegan Murray, next to Sabonis.”
“The Kings are offering a starting spot. He’s talked on a zoom call with Scott Perry, BJ Armstrong and also with Doug Christie. He’s in.” —Marc Spears, NBA Insider
The Kings’ offer contrasts with the Suns’ proposed package, which reportedly includes players Royce O’Neale, Nick Richards, and multiple second-round draft picks. Still, Kuminga’s preference clearly leans toward Sacramento due to the envisioned role and potential for growth.
Fit and Potential Impact with Sacramento
From a tactical standpoint, Sacramento’s roster setup could maximize Kuminga’s abilities. The Kings struggled from beyond the arc last season but have enough shooting talent to provide the spacing Kuminga needs to exploit his athleticism and aggressiveness around the rim. Players like Sabonis, who although not a high-volume shooter still offers floor spacing, contribute to this offensive environment.
Such spacing would allow Kuminga to focus on finishing plays inside, showcasing his raw explosive qualities. This is an area Sacramento hopes to strengthen as they seek to build a versatile and effective frontline, complementing the existing core of young talent.
Long-Term Outlook and Negotiation Dynamics
While Kuminga’s interest in the Kings seems genuine, some believe the current discussions might be laying groundwork for a future free agency opportunity. If Kuminga signs the Warriors’ qualifying offer, he would obtain a no-trade clause and become an unrestricted free agent next season, allowing the Kings or any interested team to negotiate with him directly without trading assets.
“There is a growing belief that although the Kings are interested Jonathan Kuminga now, the negotiation with the Warriors was to build a relationship w/ him and be at the front of the line when he hits free agency.” —Allen Stiles, Sports Commentator
The Warriors are reportedly reluctant to accept any trade offers currently on the table, seemingly preferring to keep Kuminga and avoid losing a former lottery pick without compensation, especially considering the previous difficulties experienced with James Wiseman’s tenure.
Complications persist as the Warriors have struggled to finalize other free-agent signings while the Kuminga situation remains uncertain. Kuminga and his representatives have shown little interest in accepting Golden State’s most recent contract offer, reportedly in the $22-23 million range. This deadlock adds pressure to the Warriors’ front office and limits their roster maneuverability during free agency.
What This Means for the Kings and the Future
Regardless of whether the Kings manage to acquire Kuminga this offseason, next year, or not at all, their approach demonstrates a more cautious and measured front office strategy. After earlier missteps with players such as De’Aaron Fox, Sacramento appears committed to avoiding overpayment for a player whose full potential remains uncertain.
The Kings are in a position to be patient and to wait for the ideal opportunity to add Kuminga, who could alleviate depth issues, especially at the off-guard and wing positions. Adding a young, athletic forward who fits their style while maintaining financial and asset flexibility is a prudent path as they continue building around their emerging stars.
In summary, Kuminga’s preference for the Sacramento Kings seems clear, motivated by an attractive role and fit, but the negotiation process may unfold over the coming months as all parties weigh their options. The evolving situation is a key storyline to watch in NBA free agency and future roster building.