The Chicago Bulls may emerge as a serious suitor for Golden State Warriors restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga if the third-year forward reaches the open market next summer, according to multiple league reports.
NBA reporter Jake Fischer said Friday that a sign-and-trade this offseason is “not very plausible” because Chicago lacks the type of outgoing pieces Golden State would require. Even so, Fischer noted that “no one should dismiss Chicago completely” because the Bulls are projected to have significant salary-cap space in 2025.
Kuminga Weighing Qualifying Offer
With negotiations still stalled, Kuminga’s representatives are “strongly considering” accepting the $7.9 million qualifying offer that expires Oct. 1, a move that would make him an unrestricted free agent in July 2025. The 22-year-old has reportedly balked at the Warriors’ two-year, $45 million proposal, which includes a team option for the second season and removes his right to consent to trades in Year 1.
During an appearance on NBA Today last month, ESPN’s Anthony Slater said Kuminga is seeking a multi-year agreement that signals he is a core piece rather than a trade chip. “The word I’ve heard used from the Kuminga side is ‘pawn,’” Slater reported, adding that the forward prefers the one-year qualifying offer because it comes with a no-trade clause.
Why Chicago Fits
Chicago enters a transitional phase after dealing DeMar DeRozan, Alex Caruso, Lonzo Ball, and Zach LaVine. With center Nikola Vucevic set to turn 35 next month, the franchise is expected to prioritize younger talent alongside newly re-signed guard Josh Giddey. Kuminga’s size (6-foot-8), athleticism, and two-way upside could align with that timeline if he reaches unrestricted free agency next year.
For now, Golden State retains matching rights and continues discussions with Kuminga. Should talks fail to progress and the forward accept his qualifying offer, Chicago’s projected cap room keeps the Bulls on the list of potential destinations in 2025.
Source: Basketball Insiders
