The Golden State Warriors have had an extremely quiet offseason as they remain in a contract stalemate with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
The 22-year-old and the Warriors appear far apart in talks on a new deal, as he is reportedly seeking a lucrative long-term deal that Golden State has yet to offer. A sign-and-trade remains on the table, though the club would likely seek a massive return for the promising 6-foot-7 forward.
Kuminga could still opt to accept his qualifying offer and bet on himself next season, but he isn’t guaranteed a starting job or a substantial increase in playing time with the Warriors. Alan Goldsher of SI.com believes the club could end up finding a sign-and-trade partner for Kuminga, potentially in a multi-team deal involving the Los Angeles Lakers. He speculated that such a trade could land the Warriors Austin Reaves, who has a player option for the 2026-27 season.
“Golden State’s shooting guard situation hasn’t been optimal since Klay Thompson decamped in Dallas, which continues to be the case heading into the 2025-26 campaign, as ESPN’s depth chart currently has Brandin Podziemski starting at the two, and, spoiler alert, Podz ain’t exactly a championship-level product,” Goldsher wrote.
MORE: Bulls reportedly interested in Jonathan Kuminga amid Josh Giddey contract talks
The Warriors made their desire to compete for another championship clear when they acquired Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat last season. With Stephen Curry now 37 years old and likely approaching the twilight of his career, Golden State’s dynasty could be nearing its end.
The Western Conference is loaded with talent, and as currently constructed, the Warriors may need to shake up their roster to be considered true title contenders. Moving Podziemski to a bench role and adding Reaves to a starting lineup alongside Curry, Butler and Draymond Green could be a viable solution.
If the Lakers feel they won’t be able to retain Reaves on a long-term deal, it would make sense to explore a trade now for other assets to pair with LeBron James and Luka Doncic this season.
While the Warriors could still circle back and offer Kuminga a deal closer to his asking price, it wouldn’t be surprising if his limited minutes last season and ongoing contract stalemate have left him uncertain about his future in Golden State.
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