Jonathan Kuminga’s Future: Trade Rumors Swirl as Warriors Struggle to Unlock His Potential
The Jonathan Kuminga situation in Golden State is reaching a boiling point, and it’s becoming harder to ignore. The former lottery pick, once seen as a cornerstone of the Warriors’ next era, is stuck in limbo-frustrated with his role, limited in minutes, and now the subject of growing trade buzz.
Despite his clear athletic upside and flashes of scoring talent, the Warriors haven’t found a consistent place for Kuminga in their rotation. And it’s not just about playing time-it’s about trust. For whatever reason, Golden State’s coaching staff hasn’t fully bought in, and that disconnect has opened the door for other teams to come calling.
Trade Winds Blowing: Lakers, Kings, Mavs in the Mix
According to NBA insider Brandon “Scoop B” Robinson, three teams are seriously monitoring Kuminga’s availability: the Los Angeles Lakers, Sacramento Kings, and Dallas Mavericks.
Let’s start with the Lakers. GM Rob Pelinka has reportedly had his eye on Kuminga since the offseason.
L.A. is in the market for a versatile wing who can defend and knock down shots-your classic 3-and-D archetype. While Kuminga isn’t a finished product in that mold, his athleticism and scoring instincts make him an intriguing upside play.
The idea of adding him to a rotation featuring LeBron James and Anthony Davis is compelling, but also complicated. Kuminga wants a bigger role, and with LeBron, AD, and Austin Reaves commanding touches, he might not find the offensive freedom he’s looking for in L.A.
Then there’s Sacramento, who’ve reportedly been the most aggressive suitor dating back to the summer. The Kings have a young core and a wide-open window to build something sustainable.
Kuminga could slot in as a high-energy forward with room to grow alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. Sacramento’s interest feels like more than just due diligence-they seem genuinely motivated to make something happen.
Dallas, meanwhile, is doing its homework. The Mavericks have reportedly reached out to Golden State to gauge Kuminga’s trade value.
Pairing him with Luka Dončić would be an interesting wrinkle-Luka’s playmaking could help unlock Kuminga’s slashing ability, and the Mavs could use a dose of athleticism on the wing. But again, the question remains: would Kuminga get the offensive role he wants?
Golden State’s Dilemma: Showcase or Ship Out?
The Warriors are in a tough spot. On one hand, they want to maintain Kuminga’s trade value by selling the idea that he’s a high-upside asset.
On the other, their actions-keeping him glued to the bench in key moments-are telling a different story. You can’t simultaneously market a player as a future star while treating him like a fringe rotation piece.
And now, with Jimmy Butler out for the season, the Western Conference playoff picture has shifted. There’s opportunity for teams to make a move, and Golden State has to decide whether Kuminga is part of their push-or part of their trade package.
If they’re not going to play him, they need to move him. But if they think there’s still untapped potential there, now might be the time to lean in and give him the runway to prove it.
Kuminga Wants More-Will He Get It?
The one thing that’s clear in all of this: Kuminga is ready for a bigger role. He’s made it known that he wants to be featured more prominently, and he’s not shy about his frustration with how things have gone in Golden State.
Whether that opportunity comes with the Warriors or elsewhere is the million-dollar question. He’s still just 21, still loaded with potential, and still a player who could swing a playoff series in the right system.
But potential only gets you so far. At some point, both player and team have to commit-or part ways.
As the trade deadline approaches, the clock is ticking. And if the Warriors don’t act soon, they risk watching a valuable asset lose even more shine-on their bench, instead of on someone else’s court.