The Golden State Warriors remain locked in contract talks with Jonathan Kuminga, but the 22-year-old forward is resisting the structure of the team’s proposal.
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Golden State has offered Kuminga a two-year, $45 million deal with a team option in the second season. Kuminga’s camp has signaled reluctance, preferring a player option that provides him more control.
Slater noted that the word “pawn” has been used around Kuminga’s negotiations, reflecting concerns that the team option could position him as a midseason trade chip rather than a long-term cornerstone.
While the Warriors have shown no willingness to alter the deal’s structure, Kuminga is reportedly considering his $7.9 million qualifying offer. That one-year contract includes a no-trade clause, giving him the ability to reach unrestricted free agency next summer.
The possibility of Kuminga rejecting $14 million in 2025–26 salary to take the qualifying offer is viewed as a risky move, but it would secure him more freedom over his future.
League sources told Jake Fischer that Golden State has listened to sign-and-trade interest but has set a steep asking price, including a young player and a first-round pick. So far, no team has met those demands.
The Sacramento Kings have shown exploratory interest, but the Brooklyn Nets, once floated as a potential suitor, have cooled on the idea of pursuing the former lottery pick.
Kuminga is coming off a strong season, averaging 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds while carving out a key role in Steve Kerr’s rotation. His growth has been especially important when veterans like Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green sit out.
