Jonathan Kuminga demanded a trade from the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, marking the first moment he became eligible to be moved following the summer contract extension that initially made him untradeable. The fifth-year forward’s request came immediately after contract restrictions lifted, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania and Anthony Slater.
Kuminga has not played since December 18, benched in favor of the Warriors’ depth rotation as friction between the player and coach Steve Kerr deteriorated. The situation has devolved into what league sources describe as an inevitable trade, with every major figure in the organization—from Kerr to veteran players—agreeing that a move represents the cleanest resolution for all parties involved.
The Path to This Moment
Kuminga began the season as a starter following a hot opening, earning Kerr’s confidence with his decision-making and playmaking. However, a stretch of struggles, particularly from three-point range, led to his demotion to the second unit in November and eventually out of the rotation entirely.
The 23-year-old’s frustration stems partly from his restricted free agency negotiations last summer, when he ultimately signed a two-year, $46.8 million deal with a team option for 2026-27. Sources indicate Kuminga felt forced into the contract structure, further souring his relationship with Warriors management and setting the stage for his immediate trade demand.
Landing Spots Taking Shape
The Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks lead the list of interested teams, with both showing genuine interest in acquiring the wing. The Los Angeles Lakers have recently emerged as a potential suitor, seeking a 3-and-D wing with size to enhance their perimeter defense and shooting.
The Washington Wizards, New Orleans Pelicans, and Portland Trail Blazers have also registered interest in Kuminga’s availability. Several other teams remain in the mix due to his flexible contract structure, which provides multiple uses depending on how teams approach the deal.
What the Warriors Want
Golden State has been prioritizing expiring contracts in return for Kuminga, declining long-term deals unless they represent obvious positive value. This stance has complicated negotiations with Sacramento, as the Warriors refuse to absorb deals like Malik Monk’s three-year, $60.4 million contract.
The Warriors have also expressed interest in acquiring Michael Porter Jr., suggesting they could move multiple first-round picks if the right star player becomes available. Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy remains willing to explore various scenarios as the February 5 trade deadline approaches.
An Uncertain Timeline
Despite the apparent consensus that Kuminga needs to be moved, Golden State has given no assurances the trade will happen before the deadline. Some decision-makers believe waiting until the summer could prove better business strategically.
Rival executives remain skeptical of that hesitation, believing the Warriors will ultimately move Kuminga before February 5. The 6-foot-7 wing retains significant value despite his disappointing 2025-26 campaign, having averaged 24.3 points on 55.6% shooting during the Warriors’ second-round playoff series loss last May.
