Golden State Warriors are expected to explore the trade market for frontcourt help as the deadline approaches, with Jonathan Kuminga emerging as a key piece.
Golden State Warriors could soon look to the trade market for answers, with Jonathan Kuminga emerging as a central name in early deadline discussions.
Golden State Warriors / Schedule
According to ESPN analyst Bobby Marks, Golden State is expected to take a serious look at moving the young forward once he becomes trade-eligible on January 15.
Marks believes the Warriors are essentially waiting for that date before making any major moves. Kuminga's salary could be used as a key trade piece to bring in much-needed help in the frontcourt, an area where Golden State has struggled all season.
"The Warriors are in a holding pattern until Jonathan Kuminga is eligible to be traded Jan. 15, when the goal should be to parlay his $22.5 million salary into a starting-caliber center or additional frontcourt help," Marks wrote.
"Golden State could also wait until the summer if a deadline deal doesn't materialize, exercising Kuminga's team option before moving him."
Credit AP - Scanpix
Kuminga has been surrounded by trade rumors since the offseason, but the situation has intensified in recent weeks.
Steve Kerr has kept the former seventh overall pick out of the rotation for three straight games, a sign that his role with the team is uncertain.
In 17 games this season, Kuminga is averaging 12.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, but his efficiency has dipped.
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