The Golden State Warriors are embroiled in a tense contract standoff with rising forward Jonathan Kuminga, creating major uncertainty as the NBA offseason progresses. With both sides failing to reach an agreement, the Warriors are reportedly exploring alternative options to bolster their roster, including an interest in Oklahoma City Thunder guard Josh Giddey. This contract dispute risks complicating the Warriors’ offseason plans and could impact their future lineup.
Josh Giddey Emerges as a Potential Replacement Amid Kuminga Dispute
According to multiple sources, the Warriors have initiated contact with Josh Giddey’s camp, signaling their willingness to pivot if Kuminga’s holdout persists. Giddey, who is currently a restricted free agent with the Chicago Bulls, is also in contract negotiations that have stalled, as he seeks $30 million per year, a figure the Bulls have thus far declined to meet. Giddey’s strong all-around play, which included an average of 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over 70 games last season, makes him an appealing target for Golden State amid this turmoil.
Additional Interest in Veteran Guard Malcolm Brogdon
Beyond Giddey, the Warriors have also considered Washington Wizards guard Malcolm Brogdon as another potential addition. Brogdon, a former Sixth Man of the Year award winner with the Boston Celtics just two years ago, carries significant experience but has recently struggled with injuries during his stints with Portland and Washington. The Warriors appear to be weighing the risks and benefits of adding a seasoned player who could bring immediate depth, contrasting with their draft-driven youth.
The Warriors are reportedly interested in Josh Giddey and have reached out to his camp
This comes after the Bulls have been unwilling to meet Giddey’s $30M/yr contract desire amidst his restricted free agency situation
Giddey averaged 14.6 PPG, 8.1 RPG & 7.2 APG in 70… pic.twitter.com/K7fnTNmVo8
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) August 7, 2025
The Breakdown of Kuminga’s Contract Negotiations and External Interest
Last week, Kuminga declined a two-year, $45 million contract extension offered by the Warriors, primarily due to disagreements over the team option on the second year and the removal of his no-trade clause. In response, Kuminga and his agent proposed a longer-term deal worth $82 million over three years, indicating a significant gap between the player‘s demands and the Warriors’ offer. Meanwhile, teams such as the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns have expressed interest in acquiring Kuminga via sign-and-trade deals, with the Suns reportedly pushing aggressively for a four-year contract totaling $90 million.
Impact of Kuminga’s Holdout on Warriors’ Roster Moves
The unresolved status of Kuminga’s contract has also complicated the Warriors’ ability to finalize other signings. Notably, Golden State needs to conclude this situation before officially signing veteran center Al Horford, despite reported agreements between Horford and the team. The ongoing holdout underscores the hurdles the Warriors face this offseason, as they balance budget limitations, contract demands, and the pursuit of sustaining competitiveness around star guard Steph Curry.
Franchise Challenges Amid Changing NBA Landscape and Draft Decisions
This offseason’s contract drama reflects broader challenges the Warriors encounter as they attempt to maintain success in the shifting NBA environment. The franchise’s financial constraints, amplified by recent changes in the collective bargaining agreement, limit their flexibility in constructing a competitive and affordable roster. Additionally, the Warriors’ mixed results in recent drafts continue to affect their depth and long-term planning. While players like Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Quinten Post have contributed positively, past decisions—such as selecting James Wiseman second overall in 2020 over prospects like LaMelo Ball and Tyrese Haliburton—have left lasting critiques.
Prospects for the Warriors Amid Player Departures and Salary Pressures
Despite these obstacles, Golden State has maintained a strong presence, capturing the NBA title in 2022 and reaching the playoffs every year since. However, the departures of key players such as Klay Thompson, Jordon Poole, and potentially Kuminga highlight the difficulty in sustaining success while managing player salaries that reach upwards of $60 million per year. With limited cap space and growing payroll concerns, the Warriors face tough decisions about which players to retain, and Kuminga’s protracted contract standoff illustrates the urgency of their offseason challenges.