Warriors Eye Kuminga Trade as Teams Show Limited Interest
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly looking to offload Jonathan Kuminga shortly after he becomes trade-eligible on January 15. However, the landscape surrounding his potential trade is not as promising as the Warriors might hope. According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the Sacramento Kings remain interested, but the pool of suitors appears rather shallow. Meanwhile, a few weeks prior, Marc Stein mentioned the Chicago Bulls as a team to keep an eye on regarding Kuminga, yet credible reports of additional interest from other franchises are scarce.
Kuminga’s contract is structured to be team-friendly, which could entice teams to consider a trade, especially if the Warriors are willing to include high-value draft capital. Even franchises that might not be keen on Kuminga could entertain a deal if the right incentives are presented. However, the most straightforward resolution would be for Kuminga to land with a team that genuinely wants him. With the Bulls and Kings lacking the type of wing players the Warriors might covet, a three-team trade scenario is starting to look increasingly likely.
Potential Three-Team Trade Scenarios
As the Warriors consider their options, several intriguing three-team trade scenarios have emerged that could reshape their roster.
Warriors Acquire a Big Wing Scorer
Warriors Get: Michael Porter Jr., Julian Phillips
Nets Get: Coby White, Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, 2026 first-round pick (via Warriors), 2028 first-round pick (via Warriors)
Bulls Get: Jonathan Kuminga
This trade hinges on the Brooklyn Nets, who have reportedly not been enamored with Kuminga. Instead, they could pivot to acquiring Coby White, a player they could extend to solidify their guard rotation. For the Nets, the allure lies in gaining two first-round picks from the Warriors, including an unprotected selection in 2028 that could potentially become a top-five pick as Golden State’s core ages. Michael Porter Jr. is averaging an impressive 25.8 points per game, showcasing the offensive boost he could provide to the Warriors.
Bolstering the Warriors’ Roster
Warriors Get: Daniel Gafford, Klay Thompson
Kings Get: Jonathan Kuminga
Mavericks Get: Malik Monk, Buddy Hield, 2026 Second-Round Pick (via Kings), 2032 Second-Round Pick (via Warriors)
With Klay Thompson’s contract winding down, he stands as a prime candidate for trade discussions, especially with the Dallas Mavericks possibly looking to reshape their roster around rising star Cooper Flagg. In this scenario, the Mavericks would receive Malik Monk and Buddy Hield, who can be cut in the offseason to create cap space. The Warriors would welcome Gafford as a starting center, while Thompson would provide valuable shooting depth off the bench.
Aiming for the Best Big on the Market
Warriors Get: Ivica Zubac
Jazz Get: Jonathan Kuminga
Clippers Get: Taylor Hendricks, Cody Williams, Svi Mykhailiuk, 2026 first-round pick (via Warriors), 2028 first-round pick (via Warriors)
As the Los Angeles Clippers struggle with a 11-21 record, they may be positioned to become major sellers at the trade deadline. Zubac presents the best return potential. While the Clippers could consider a package involving Kuminga and two first-round picks, they might prefer to target younger talent as they contemplate a reset. Recent lottery picks like Taylor Hendricks and Cody Williams, both under cost-effective contracts, could appeal to them. The Utah Jazz might also be a hidden suitor for Kuminga, as they could benefit from his athleticism and slashing ability.
In any case, the Warriors are likely to have to part with two first-round picks to land Zubac, who stands out as a premier player on this year’s trade market. His contract, which spans three years and totals $58.7 million, is viewed as one of the most favorable for a non-rookie in the league.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Warriors find themselves at a crossroads with Kuminga. The possibilities are vast, but the execution will be key in shaping their roster for the future.
