The Warriors are hesitant to offer Jonathan Kuminga a max extension worth $224 million over five years, according to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.
Contract Negotiations:
If no agreement is reached by October 21, Kuminga will become a restricted free agent in 2025. This means other teams can make offers that the Warriors can match. There’s a big gap between what Kuminga wants and what the Warriors are willing to offer. They might settle for around $30 million as the deadline nears.
Reading between the lines, it looks like Kuminga’s future with the Warriors isn’t bright. It’s unusual for a former No. 7 overall pick to hit restricted free agency without an early contract extension. Other top-10 picks from his draft class, like Cade Cunningham and Scottie Barnes, have already secured long-term deals with their teams.
Some say Kuminga is just as talented but hasn’t had the same chances because he’s on a veteran team aiming for championships. He’s averaged only 21.5 minutes per game in three seasons, while others from his draft class play over 30 minutes per game.
Trade Considerations:
Why didn’t they trade him if they don’t fully believe in him? They could have traded him for stars like Paul George or Lauri Markkanen but chose not to. Adding either player would have helped Stephen Curry compete for another championship as he turns 37 soon.
If Kuminga doesn’t become a star next season, it might be a mistake not trading him when they had the chance. He could become an unhappy player who has already clashed with coach Steve Kerr over playing time.
Fans often wonder why they didn’t make this move earlier; we think it’s puzzling too.
Mixed Signals:
The Warriors keep praising Kuminga’s potential. Coach Kerr, Joe Lacob, and Draymond Green all talk about him being a future star. Yet their actions show doubt about his role on the team.
It’s confusing when words and actions don’t match up!
