The Sacramento Kings, who have shown the most consistent interest in acquiring Jonathan Kuminga, are reportedly not willing to part with their first-round pick, which signals that a third team would need to be involved for Kuminga to move to Sacramento.
With Jonathan Kuminga having become eligible to be traded and reportedly demanding a trade from the Golden State Warriors, it is very likely he will switch teams prior to the trade deadline.
Sacramento Kings / Schedule
The team that currently appears to be the most likely landing destination for Kuminga is the Sacramento Kings, who have been the most consistent team appearing in rumors surrounding the Warriors forward.
However, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, the trade could now be more complicated, as the Kings do not want to give up their first-round draft pick in a potential deal, meaning a third team would need to be involved to complete the trade.
“The Sacramento Kings have shown the most consistent interest in acquiring Kuminga. Over the summer, Sacramento was considering including a protected first-round draft pick along with Malik Monk in sign-and-trade discussions for Kuminga,” Scotto reports.
“However, the Kings are now unwilling to part with a first-round pick and would likely need a third team to ultimately acquire Kuminga, with the Warriors remaining uninterested in acquiring Monk and preferring expiring contracts,” he adds.
Credit AP - Scanpix
He began the season as a starter, appearing in the first 12 games, but hasn't seen any playing time in the Warriors' last 13 contests. This season, he's averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in approximately 24 minutes per game.
The Warriors spent much of the offseason negotiating to re-sign Kuminga, ultimately reaching a two-year, $46.8 million deal with a team option for the second season.
Sources tell ESPN that Kuminga felt pressured to sign that contract, which further strained his relationship with the front office, but it does make him an appealing, tradeable asset at the deadline.
Several teams have shown interest in acquiring the 23-year-old wing.
Along with the Sacramento Kings, the Dallas Mavericks are reportedly exploring deals that could fit into their rebuilds, while the Los Angeles Lakers remain in the mix.
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