January 7, 2026 — The Sacramento Kings are once again targeting Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga as the NBA trade deadline draws near, ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported.
Kings Renew Interest in Kuminga
General manager Scott Perry visited Kuminga in Miami during the summer when the 21-year-old was a restricted free agent, and league sources say both sides remain open to a deal. Perry contacted Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. last week to revisit trade possibilities.
Golden State’s front office is weighing offers but has indicated it will keep Kuminga if it does not receive satisfactory value. During the offseason, Perry was willing to include a protected 2030 first-round pick; however, Slater noted the Kings have grown hesitant to put that same asset back on the table.
Warriors’ Trade Parameters
The Warriors are reportedly unwilling to accept contracts they view as long-term liabilities and have shown no interest in Malik Monk, who is owed $20.2 million next season and holds a $21.6 million player option for 2027-28.
A multi-team structure could help both franchises reach an agreement. Around the league, Sacramento guard Keon Ellis—on a $2.3 million expiring deal—has drawn attention and becomes extension-eligible on February 9.
Ownership’s Heavy Hand
Sources told Slater that team owner Vivek Ranadivé remains deeply involved in basketball decisions. He pushed former front-office leaders Monte McNair and Wes Wilcox to raise their 2024 offer for DeMar DeRozan, a move that cost Sacramento an unprotected 2032 first-round pick sent to San Antonio. Ranadivé subsequently awarded DeRozan a three-year, $74 million contract.
Ranadivé also championed last season’s three-team trade that sent De’Aaron Fox out of Sacramento and brought in Zach LaVine, a transaction that met internal resistance, according to the report.
Locker-Room Dynamics
Lack of consistent player-to-player accountability has been cited as an issue. Veteran guard Dennis Schröder, in his first year with the club, said accountability “happens here and there, but not consistently.” Center Domantas Sabonis echoed those concerns and lobbied management to sign former Oklahoma City teammate Russell Westbrook.
Christie’s Job Considered Safe
Head coach Doug Christie is in the second season of a three-year pact and has one guaranteed year left. Team insiders told Slater his position is secure, and Perry publicly backed the coach’s ability to “help push us through and turn the corner.”
Trade Chips and Draft Capital
Sacramento possesses several veteran contracts, but their size could limit flexibility. League observers view this summer’s first-round pick as the club’s strongest asset. Perry is prioritizing size and defensive versatility, while Christie seeks players suited to an up-tempo, physical approach.
The Kings have until the trade deadline to determine whether they can meet Golden State’s asking price for Kuminga without compromising key future assets.
Source: Hoops Rumors
