Contract Dispute Between Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga Persists as Trade Rumors Grow
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The Golden State Warriors and forward Jonathan Kuminga remain locked in a contract stalemate that continues to shape the franchise’s offseason strategy.
Offer on the Table
According to reporting by Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, the Warriors have held firm on a two-year, $45 million proposal that includes a team option for the second season and a request for Kuminga to waive his right to veto a trade during that period. Kuminga and his agent, Aaron Turner, have rejected the structure, favoring a longer commitment.
Fischer noted that the Phoenix Suns were prepared to extend Kuminga a four-year package worth nearly $90 million via sign-and-trade, featuring a player option in the fourth year. Interest has also come from the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls, underscoring the 21-year-old’s market beyond the Bay Area.
Qualifying-Offer Safety Net
If no agreement is reached, Kuminga could accept his $8 million qualifying offer before it expires on Oct. 1, positioning him for unrestricted free agency in 2026. While that route carries risk for the player, it also threatens the Warriors with the possibility of losing him without compensation.
Potential Trade Targets
Fischer reported that Golden State’s most realistic trade target is New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III, valued for his length, defense and perimeter shooting next to Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. The Pelicans, however, have rebuffed all inquiries and intend to keep the 25-year-old, who is owed $25 million next season.
The Warriors have also checked on the availability of LeBron James during multiple calls to the Los Angeles Lakers over the past 18 months, but matching his $52.6 million salary without dismantling the roster has rendered a deal improbable. Similar hurdles apply to any pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Roster Outlook
Golden State currently has six open roster spots, the most in the NBA. League executives expect veteran center Al Horford, guard De’Anthony Melton and defender Gary Payton II to occupy three of those positions, with second-round pick Will Richard projected to claim another. Melton and Payton are viewed as minimum-salary additions, while the 39-year-old Horford is anticipated to sign for the $5.7 million taxpayer mid-level exception, potentially with a 2026-27 player option.
Until the Kuminga situation is resolved—either through a new contract or a trade—the Warriors’ broader roster plans remain in limbo.
Source: Hoops Wire
