After weeks of speculation about where Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga will play, it appears that we now know. According to Warriors insiderTim Kawakami, Golden State has officially shut down sign-and-trade talks, and Kuminga is expected to return next season.
Considering that he and Golden State failed to agree on a new long-term contract, it’s likely that he will sign his qualifying offer. That would bring him back on a one-year deal worth $7.9 million.
It would also mean that he’d be an unrestricted free agent after next season if not traded before then. That could be a mistake for Golden State considering that Kuminga and Coach Steve Kerr clearly aren’t on the same page.
After all, Kuminga obviously wants a bigger role than Kerr can provide. That could lead to increasing frustration with Kuminga, who has previously spoken out about his lack of playing time. In fact, Anthony Slater and Shams Charania reported that he feels that playing for Golden State has “stunted” his growth.
If Kuminga struggles next season or doesn’t play his hardest, then that could kill his trade market and make it more likely that he leaves for nothing and free agency.
Did the Warriors make the right decision by keeping Kuminga?
The Warriors decision not to trade Kuminga at the trade deadline remains a questionable call. Especially after the distraction that his restricted free agency has caused.
After all, it seemed obvious that he wasn’t going to agree to a long-term contract with the Warriors this summer. Now, with the Warriors playing hardball, refusing to meet him on his contract demands or work out a sign-and-trade, Kuminga could return the favor next season.
Much like how Klay Thompson caused distractions during his final season with Golden State, Kuminga could make his displeasure with his role known. He can also veto trades, were he to take his qualifying offer, adding another wrinkle to the Kuminga saga.
That would make it harder for Golden State to recoup value for him if he doesn’t like where he’d be moved to.
All told, the Warriors shutting down sign-and-trade talks for Kuminga could backfire. It does give them more time to trade him or work out a new deal. But Kuminga may either tank his value or refuse to be traded, ensuring that he leaves for nothing next summer.
