Jonathan Kuminga Requests Trade, But Warriors Aren’t Rushing to Move the Young Forward
Jonathan Kuminga wants out. That much is clear. The 21-year-old forward has reportedly requested a trade ahead of the NBA deadline, but if you're expecting the Warriors to pull the trigger quickly, don’t hold your breath.
Golden State’s front office isn’t ignoring the situation, but they’re not exactly scrambling, either. Speaking Tuesday evening, Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. addressed the request head-on and didn’t sugarcoat the reality of the situation.
“I’m aware of that,” Dunleavy said of Kuminga’s desire to be moved. “In terms of demands, when you make a demand, there needs to be demand on the market. We'll see where that unfolds.”
It’s a blunt but telling statement. Kuminga may want a fresh start, but unless there’s a team out there ready to offer something Golden State values in return, this could be a waiting game.
Dunleavy emphasized that he’s open to working with players who want a different opportunity - but only if it aligns with what’s best for the team. He made it clear that while he’d like to help Kuminga find the right fit, his priority remains the Warriors' long-term outlook.
“I want to help people out,” Dunleavy said, “but I also have to do what’s best for the organization.”
That balance - between player development and team success - has been a recurring theme in Golden State’s recent seasons. Kuminga, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, was once viewed as a cornerstone of the Warriors’ next generation. But the fit hasn’t always been smooth, and Dunleavy admitted he’s “disappointed” things haven’t worked out better between the team and the young forward.
Still, there might be a new chapter ahead - and it could be in the Bay Area, at least for now.
After nearly a month out of the rotation, Kuminga returned to action Tuesday and made a statement with his play. He dropped 20 points in his return, flashing the athleticism and scoring instincts that made him such an intriguing prospect coming out of the draft.
Head coach Steve Kerr didn’t shy away from the idea that Kuminga will be part of the plan moving forward. “He’s expected to factor in,” Kerr said, signaling that the door isn’t closed on Kuminga’s role in Golden State just yet.
So where does that leave things?
Kuminga wants a trade. The Warriors aren’t dismissing that, but they’re also not going to force a move just to satisfy a request. If the right deal doesn’t materialize, Golden State is more than willing to keep Kuminga in the fold - especially if he continues to produce like he did on Tuesday night.
For now, all eyes turn to the trade deadline. But until something concrete develops, Kuminga remains a Warrior - and based on his latest performance, he’s not done contributing just yet.