A potential sign-and-trade deal between the Golden State Warriors and Phoenix Suns for Jonathan Kuminga appears to be dead in the water.
According to Duane Rankin of the Arizona Republic, Phoenix “has interest” in Kuminga but “are unlikely to land him because they lack the draft capital and assets to deliver in what would be a sign-and-trade for the Warriors.”
That lines up with recent reporting from Jake Fischer, who noted that Golden State is holding out for a first-round pick in any Kuminga deal. So far, no team—including Phoenix—has come close to meeting that asking price.
Warriors Still Searching for Trade Value on Kuminga
Heading into the offseason, the expectation was that both the Warriors and Kuminga were ready to part ways. The 21-year-old forward wanted a larger role, and Golden State wanted to flip him for win-now help in the Stephen Curry era.
But weeks into free agency, nothing has materialized.
The Sacramento Kings have been the team most often linked to Kuminga, though no deal is reportedly close. The Chicago Bulls have also shown interest, but Golden State isn’t interested in taking back Nikola Vucevic, which limits their options. The Suns had early conversations and were intrigued, but again, they don’t have the assets to make a serious offer.
Contract Dispute Adds Another Layer to the Standoff
Part of the hold-up is contract-related.
Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler are already on the books. Kuminga, a restricted free agent, reportedly wants a four-year deal worth $120 million—$30 million annually. The Warriors, on the other hand, prefer something closer to three years, $60 million.
That shorter deal would give the team more flexibility. They could flip Kuminga again at the February trade deadline. Or next summer, should things not work out.
Last season, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. But his 3-point shooting (30.5%) and true shooting percentage (.535) remained below league average. For all his upside, he’s still inconsistent. And teams have taken note.
If Kuminga Stays With Warriors, Changes Must Follow
Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty ImagesJonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors
If no trade materializes and Kuminga returns on a shorter deal, the Warriors have work to do.
Steve Kerr has to trust him. That means minutes, reps, and allowing mistakes. Kuminga, in turn, has to produce at a level where other teams are willing to send back real assets.
For now, Phoenix is reportedly out of the running. The standoff continues — and so does the wait for resolution.
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