TITLE: Kuminga Trade Request Still in Play; Clippers Surge While Lakers Skid Ahead of Thursday Matchup
SLUG: kuminga-trade-request-clippers-surge-lakers-slide
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Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga remains firm in his desire to be traded, league sources told the San Francisco Chronicle, even after a season-ending ACL injury to Jimmy Butler opened a rotation spot that led to a 20-point, five-rebound performance in 21 minutes on Tuesday.
Kuminga, now in his fifth NBA season, believes a fresh start elsewhere would grant him a full-time role at power forward. The Sacramento Kings—who pursued a sign-and-trade last summer when Kuminga was a restricted free agent—are still viewed as the most aggressive suitor. The Los Angeles Lakers, Dallas Mavericks and Chicago Bulls are also considered potential bidders as the Feb. 8 deadline approaches.
Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. told the Chronicle the club is willing to include future first-round picks and to absorb contracts extending beyond next season. Only Moses Moody has guaranteed money on Golden State’s books for 2027-28, giving the front office flexibility as it pursues either a proven star—such as Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo—or an emerging talent like Pelicans wing Trey Murphy III.
“There’s still time left here,” Dunleavy said when asked about Kuminga’s status. “He’s on our roster. I know the trade has been requested, but nothing is imminent and things in this league can change in a heartbeat.”
Clippers Gain Ground, Lakers Struggle
The Los Angeles Clippers and Lakers meet Thursday night at the Inuit Dome having taken sharply different paths since their Dec. 20 matchup, according to the Orange County Register. The Clippers rebounded from a poor start to go 13-2, seizing a narrow lead for the Western Conference’s final play-in position. The Lakers have lost five of eight and enter the second game of an eight-contest road swing forced by the Grammy Awards at Crypto.com Arena.
“I’ve never been part of a road trip that’s eight games, but it’s definitely very important to get the first one,” Mavericks star Luka Doncic said after Tuesday’s win in Denver. “The way we stayed together the whole game was impressive, and I think that builds us up.”
Leonard Questionable; Ayton Cleared
Kawhi Leonard is listed as questionable for Thursday with a left-knee contusion sustained Jan. 10 at Detroit. The Clippers sent Leonard home from the road trip three days ago for additional treatment.
Deandre Ayton, who was poked in the eye before halftime on Tuesday, is not on Los Angeles’ injury report for the upcoming contest.
Source: HoopsRumors
