Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said he does not expect forward Jonathan Kuminga to become a distraction after the 21-year-old finalized a new contract that keeps him trade-eligible in mid-January.
Kuminga recently signed a two-year agreement that includes a team option, a structure likely to keep rumors about his long-term future alive. Despite reports that the negotiations were contentious, Kerr insisted the deal will not affect team chemistry.
“I’ve known JK for four years now,” Kerr said, according to The Athletic’s Nick Friedell. “He’s not that guy to come in and tear a team down.”
Kerr added that he supports players who push for the most favorable terms available. “It’s just the business we’re in. I never begrudge any player for trying to get the best contract that he can,” the coach told reporters. “These are short careers, and I want all our players to do well. How it gets there sometimes can be messy. I’m not worried about any of that.”
Jonathan Kuminga was selected No. 7 overall in the 2021 NBA Draft and averaged 9.9 points and 3.4 rebounds in 67 games last season. The Warriors open training camp next week.
Source: Hoops Wire
