The rift between the Golden State Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga has taken another turn as questions surface about head coach Steve Kerr’s commitment to the young forward.
On ESPN’s NBA Today, Tim MacMahon stated that “Steve Kerr doesn’t want Jonathan Kuminga. Kuminga doesn’t want to play for the Warriors, in part, because he knows the coach doesn’t want him.”
The comments add fuel to ongoing contract tension between the two sides. Kuminga’s camp recently proposed a one-year “bridge” deal, which would pay more than the $7.9 million qualifying offer while allowing him to hit unrestricted free agency in 2026.
Unlike the standard qualifying offer, the deal would not include a built-in no-trade clause. That change would let Golden State use him as an expiring contract at the trade deadline.
Warriors owner Joe Lacob and the front office, led by Mike Dunleavy Jr., have resisted that structure. They fear losing Kuminga for nothing next summer if he enters the market without restrictions.
Instead, the team has countered with a three-year, $75.2 million offer that includes a team option in the third year, with $48.3 million guaranteed in the first two seasons. Another version reportedly discussed is a three-year, $54 million fully guaranteed deal, though it does not include a player option.
For Kuminga and agent Aaron Turner, flexibility is the sticking point. They prefer a player option, even at a lower annual salary, to avoid being locked into a team-controlled deal.
The 22-year-old is coming off his best season, averaging 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds while showing growth on both ends. His athleticism and defensive ability made him one of Golden State’s most reliable young contributors during stretches without Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
Despite that production, league insiders believe the Warriors could explore trade options if talks stall. The Sacramento Kings have reportedly shown interest, while the Brooklyn Nets have pulled back from discussions.
With the October 1 qualifying offer deadline approaching, the Warriors face a crucial decision. Either they meet Kuminga’s push for more control or risk losing him to free agency down the line.
