TITLE: Warriors, Jonathan Kuminga Still Far Apart as Contract Talks Resume
SLUG: warriors-kuminga-contract-stalemate
CONTENT:
Negotiations between the Golden State Warriors and forward Jonathan Kuminga have restarted, but the sides remain distant on contract terms, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Speaking Friday on NBA Today, Slater said both camps exchanged new contract frameworks over the past week. Kuminga’s representatives are reportedly pushing for an agreement that labels the 21-year-old as a foundational piece rather than a potential trade asset.
“The word I’ve heard used from the Kuminga side is pawn,” Slater noted. “He doesn’t want to sign a two-year, $45 million deal with a team option only to be moved mid-season.”
Slater added that Kuminga would entertain a three-year pact or a contract featuring a player option, but Golden State has been reluctant to commit. With little traction, the former No. 7 overall pick is now considering accepting his $8 million qualifying offer for the 2025-26 season instead of the reported two-year, $45 million proposal.
Accepting the qualifying offer would grant Kuminga a no-trade clause and put him on course for unrestricted free agency next summer—an outcome that could jeopardize the Warriors’ ability to control his future. Slater described the scenario as risky for the team but said Kuminga prioritizes either being treated as a cornerstone or gaining full autonomy.
The stalemate is also affecting Golden State’s offseason plans. Veteran center Al Horford and other potential free-agent targets are said to be monitoring Kuminga’s status before making decisions. With training camp not opening until late September and restricted-free-agent qualifying offers expiring on Oct. 1, the impasse could continue for several weeks.
Slater acknowledged it would be “somewhat surprising” if Kuminga bypasses an additional $14 million to sign the qualifying offer but emphasized that the forward values long-term role clarity or immediate freedom over short-term earnings.
Source: Hoops Wire
