Could a Jonathan Kuminga Trade Bring Andrew Wiggins Back to the Bay? Warriors Exploring Familiar Territory
The Golden State Warriors are keeping their options open as the trade deadline approaches, and one name that continues to surface in discussions is Jonathan Kuminga. But what’s turning heads is the possibility that their search for roster upgrades could lead them right back to someone they know all too well: Andrew Wiggins.
Yes, that Andrew Wiggins - the same two-way wing who played a pivotal role in Golden State’s 2022 title run. Now in Miami and putting together a quietly strong season, Wiggins is reportedly being shopped around by the Heat. According to league sources, Miami has been gauging interest in the veteran forward, who’s shooting a career-best 40.2% from three while averaging 15.8 points per game.
For the Warriors, this could be more than just a nostalgic reunion. It might be the kind of low-risk, high-upside move that helps stabilize a roster still trying to recapture its championship identity.
Why Wiggins Makes Sense (Again)
Let’s start with the obvious: Golden State knows exactly what they’re getting in Wiggins. He spent five seasons in Steve Kerr’s system and was arguably the team’s second-most important player during their 2022 title run. His ability to defend elite wings, hit open threes, and operate as a secondary scorer made him a near-perfect fit alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green.
That familiarity matters. Especially for a team that’s struggled to find consistent production from its supporting cast this season.
Wiggins’ current contract includes a $30.2 million player option for next season, but that’s a manageable number for a player with his skillset - particularly when compared to the cost of acquiring other potential targets. Players like Trey Murphy III or Michael Porter Jr. would almost certainly require multiple first-round picks.
Wiggins? He could be had for significantly less, and he doesn’t tie up Golden State’s future flexibility.
What About Kuminga?
Kuminga remains one of the Warriors’ most intriguing young assets. His athleticism, defensive upside, and flashes of offensive growth have made him a fan favorite and a developmental success story.
But the clock is ticking. Golden State is still trying to win now with Curry at the helm, and if the front office believes Wiggins gives them a better shot at making a postseason run this year, they may be willing to move on from the 21-year-old forward.
The Heat have shown interest in Kuminga before, and while that interest may have cooled, it’s not out of the question that discussions could pick back up. A potential framework could involve Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and a first-round pick heading to Miami in exchange for Wiggins and a minimum contract to balance the salaries. That’s not a guaranteed deal by any means, but it’s a conversation worth having - especially if Miami is looking to retool around Butler and Bam Adebayo.
The Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about a reunion or plugging a hole in the rotation. It’s about threading the needle between short-term competitiveness and long-term flexibility.
Wiggins represents a rare opportunity to do both. He’s a proven playoff performer who fits seamlessly into Golden State’s system, and he doesn’t require the kind of asset drain that would compromise future blockbuster ambitions - like a potential swing at Giannis Antetokounmpo or another superstar down the line.
For a team still trying to squeeze every drop out of the Curry era, that kind of move makes a lot of sense.
The Warriors have a lot to consider over the next few weeks. But if the opportunity to bring back Wiggins presents itself at the right price, don’t be surprised if they pull the trigger. Sometimes, the best move forward is the one that brings you back to where you started.