Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is reportedly open to joining the Phoenix Suns, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Speaking on The Hoop Collective Podcast, Slater revealed that Kuminga “wouldn’t mind” being an extended member of the Suns, amid stalled contract talks with Golden State.
The 22-year-old remains unsigned in restricted free agency, and while the Warriors extended a $7.9 million qualifying offer, they have not presented a long-term deal.
Slater noted that Golden State avoided making a formal extension offer last summer to preserve trade flexibility, citing concerns over triggering base-year compensation restrictions.
Those limitations, outlined in the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement, make it more difficult for the Warriors to match salaries in a sign-and-trade involving Kuminga.
Slater also said the front office had discussions about acquiring Kevin Durant, with Kuminga potentially included in those talks. No trade materialized.
According to Slater, Kuminga’s camp would have accepted a five-year, $150 million deal if it had been offered, using Jalen Johnson’s recent extension as a benchmark. But Golden State never made such an offer.
The Warriors have explored sign-and-trade scenarios but have not found a deal that meets their asking price.
Golden State is seeking a package that includes a young prospect and a future first-round pick, while avoiding long-term salary commitments.
Kuminga’s qualifying offer remains on the table through October 1. If he accepts, he will return on a one-year deal with a built-in no-trade clause.
That clause would give him significant leverage over any potential midseason trade, as he would have to approve any destination.
The former No. 7 pick averaged 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds in 2024–25, with improved production after the All-Star break.
