The trade chatter around Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is starting to quiet down-and fast. What once looked like a wide-open market is now narrowing, with several potential suitors either backing off or shifting priorities as we inch closer to the February 5 trade deadline.
Let’s start with the Suns. Phoenix had been floated as a natural fit for Kuminga-a team that could use his athleticism and upside on the wing.
But that door appears to be closed. According to reports, the Suns have cooled on the idea, and they’re no longer considered active players in the Kuminga sweepstakes.
That’s a notable shift, especially considering how clean the on-court fit might’ve been.
The Mavericks are still in the picture, but it’s complicated. League sources say Dallas has shown interest in Kuminga, though mainly as part of a broader, more ambitious framework involving Anthony Davis.
That’s a big swing, and it raises a key question: Would the Mavs pursue Kuminga as a standalone piece, or is he only appealing if he’s part of something larger? That distinction matters, especially with Dallas juggling roster construction and salary cap realities.
Then there’s the Lakers. There’s been some buzz out of L.A., with team and league sources confirming at least a baseline level of interest in Kuminga.
But so far, it doesn’t look like anything’s brewing between the Lakers and Warriors. No real talks.
No traction. Just due diligence-for now.
Meanwhile, some of the rumored counter-moves involving Golden State are drying up. There had been whispers about Michael Porter Jr. as a possible trade target, but that trail has gone cold. A team source made it clear there’s been no serious dialogue with the Nets, and ESPN reports the Warriors haven’t had meaningful conversations about Porter in over a month.
The Pelicans? They’ve been firm in shutting down any talk around Trey Murphy III, and there’s never been a strong indication they’d be interested in Kuminga in the first place.
So here we are: interest in Kuminga still exists, but the list of realistic landing spots is shrinking. And with leverage fading and the deadline looming, the Warriors are approaching a decision point.
Do they hold firm and bet on Kuminga’s continued development? Or do they pivot, take what they can get, and make a move for the sake of roster balance or future flexibility?
Patience versus pragmatism-that’s the call Golden State will have to make soon.