Golden State Warriors wing Jonathan Kuminga is one of the top restricted NBA free agents available right now, generating interest from several teams around the league. However, it seems that inquiring teams are having a tough time landing him.
According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, there was “no significant traction” made over the weekend regarding Kuminga. Amid “conversations and little action” surrounding the young forward, the Sacramento Kings are the “strongest pursuer” of Kuminga, but no deal is close.
Related: Sacramento Kings’ trade offer for Jonathan Kuminga
Jonathan Kuminga stats: 15.3 PPG, 4.6 RPG, 2.2 APG, 45.4% FG, 30.5% 3PT, 0.8 Win Shares per 48 Minutes in 47 games
Golden State has the right to match any offer Kuminga receives in NBA free agency. As a result, any team that wants to sign the 6-foot-8 forward would need to work out a sign-and-trade since the Warriors don’t want to lose him for nothing.
While clubs are open to negotiating a sign-and-trade for Kuminga, it comes at a steep cost. In addition to the lucrative multi-year deal he wants to sign, Golden State has reportedly set a high asking price for a trade.
Related: New suitor emerges for Golden State Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga
Slater previously reported that the Warriors’ front office wants a young player in addition to a future first-round pick in any sign-and-trade for Kuminga. It’s a demand that no interested NBA team has expressed any desire to meet.
Golden State has seemingly put itself in a situation where it could have a disgruntled young player who is stuck with a franchise that doesn’t believe he can be a quality starter in the NBA. While other teams are willing to roll the dice on Kuminga, who is still just 22 years old, the Warriors have control over the situation.
For now, NBA teams are hoping that Golden State eventually lowers its asking price and is willing to take second-round picks in exchange for Kuminga. With that seeming to be a non-starter for Golden State, this situation could drag on for much of the offseason.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson