The Golden State Warriors are standing at a crossroads with Jonathan Kuminga, and honestly, this situation feels like it could define the start of their season.
With training camp kicking off on September 29, 2025, Kuminga’s restricted free agency remains unresolved — and the drama is heating up fast.
Let’s break it down.
The Contract Standoff
The Warriors have put multiple deals on the table: a three-year, $75.2 million contract (with a team option on Year 3) and a shorter two-year, $45 million deal. Both come with guaranteed money, but the Warriors want control. Kuminga’s camp isn’t vibing with that. They’re pushing for a player option — giving him more power over his future. Golden State has made it clear: that’s a nonstarter.
Jonathan Kuminga could accept the one-year, $8 million qualifying offer by October 1, which would make him an unrestricted free agent in 2026. That’s risky though, because it means betting on himself with less money upfront. Still, it shows how serious he is about control over his career.
The San Diego Situation
Another red flag? Kuminga skipped Jimmy Butler’s player-organized minicamp in San Diego — the only Warrior not there. For a team trying to build chemistry around a new “big three” of Curry, Draymond, and Butler, that absence screams tension. Fans and reporters see it as a sign of his frustration.
The Trade Rumors
With no deal in place, the trade buzz is loud. The Kings are still interested, dangling Malik Monk and a pick, though the contracts don’t align perfectly for Golden State. Another package has the Bulls offering Coby White, Jalen Smith, and a 2028 first-rounder — but it feels too steep considering the Warriors’ aging roster. Even the Suns pitched a deal involving Royce O’Neale and Nick Richards.
The truth? Golden State doesn’t want to lose Kuminga for nothing. They’d rather lock him into a tradable contract than deal him away cheap.
The Bigger Picture
Kuminga has shown flashes of real potential, averaging 12.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists across 258 games. But his role shrank after Butler arrived last season. Add in a rocky relationship with Steve Kerr, and you can see why he feels “miserable” in Golden State.
Meanwhile, the Warriors’ roster is in limbo. They’ve got verbal agreements with Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, and Seth Curry, but those can’t be finalized until Kuminga’s future is sorted. If nothing changes by camp, Golden State risks walking into the season understaffed.
Final Thoughts
The Kuminga situation is messy, and it’s not just about money — it’s about trust, control, and fit. He wants a bigger role and security. The Warriors want flexibility and a clear path forward with their vets. Training camp is right around the corner, and this story could either end with a long-term deal, a shocking trade, or a gamble with the qualifying offer.
Whatever happens, one thing’s clear: Jonathan Kuminga’s future could shape the Warriors’ season before the first tip-off.
