Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga Trade Stalls as Unexpected Three-Item Deal Emerges—What’s Really Going On?

Golden State hasn’t been moved by any offers thus far, and is asking for three main items in a potential return.

The saga surrounding Jonathan Kuminga’s future is far from reaching a conclusion, even as free agency moves into its fourth week. The Golden State Warriors, seemingly unwavering in their stance, have set a firm bar for any team looking to pry away their promising young forward. Both the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns have practically thrown down the gauntlet, showing serious intent to land Kuminga. Yet, despite the buzz, the Warriors haven’t budged—they’re holding out for a package that includes not just a first-round draft pick but also a young talent, all while avoiding any messy contract baggage. Sacramento’s recent proposal, involving Devin Carter, Dario Šarić, and two second-rounders, showcases just how deep these negotiations run, though it still may not be enough to sway the Warriors. Kuminga himself has signaled some openness to a Sacramento shift, but one thing’s crystal clear: Golden State isn’t rushing or settling anytime soon, confident in the value of their athletic wing who’s averaged 15.3 points over four seasons. The tension, strategy, and shrewd asset management behind the scenes make this a fascinating chess match to follow. LEARN MORE

Sacramento offered second-year guard Devin Carter, big man Dario Šarić and two second-round draft picks to Golden State earlier this month in exchange for Kuminga, sources told NBC Sports California.

It is unclear at this time if the Kings sent a revised offer to their Northern California neighbors, as several reports indicate Golden State has interest in young Kings players Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis.

Kuminga met with Kings general manager Scott Perry, assistant GM B.J. Armstrong and coach Doug Christie earlier this week, Slater also reported Friday, and the 22-year-old is “open-minded” to the idea of joining Sacramento after hearing Perry’s promising pitch.

In four seasons with Golden State, Kuminga has averaged 15.3 points on 45.4 percent shooting, with 4.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

The Warriors remain particular in their asking price for a potential trade package including Jonathan Kuminga.

“There’s definitely a lot of asset management going on behind the scenes with this entire situation,” ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported Friday on “The Hoop Collective” podcast. “Part of the reason a sign-and-trade hasn’t gotten done for Kuminga, particularly the Kings and Suns, I would say have been the most aggressive, is because the Warriors have been pretty steadfast in their requirement of at least a first-round pick.

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“They also want a young player and they don’t want to take on bad contracts.”

As the stare-off continues nearly four weeks into free agency between both sides, it’s been well-reported that both the Kings and Phoenix Suns have been the most aggressive in acquiring the young forward.

Four seasons have been ample time for both sides to realize they might not be a match, but that doesn’t mean the Warriors will rush or change their asking price for their athletic young wing.