The Jonathan Kuminga offseason saga has been one of the most discussed topics in the NBA. As the Golden State Warriors work to retain the 22-year-old forward, Kuminga has reportedly expressed a preference to join the Sacramento Kings.
The Kings and the Suns appear to be the frontrunners to sign Kuminga this offseason. While a sign-and-trade seems to be the most likely outcome, there has been no breakthrough, as the current trade packages haven’t satisfied the Warriors.
Amidst ongoing discussions, Kuminga has indicated his desire to join the Kings. This was reported by ESPN’s Marc Spears, who said:
“He wants to go. The Kings are offering a starting spot at power forward next to Keegan Murray, next to Sabonis. He’s talked on a Zoom call with Scott Perry, BJ Armstrong, and also with the head coach. So he’s in. He wants to go there, but the Warriors don’t like the first.”
By the “first”, Spears is referring to the conditional first-round pick that the Kings are including in their package. In a deal involving the forward, the Dubs have made their demands clear. Without an unprotected first-round pick, Golden State may not be willing to make a deal.
The Warriors were also hesitant about a trade package centered around Devin Carter, who had to undergo shoulder surgery last season. Instead, the Dubs have shown an interest in Keon Ellis, but the Kings have kept both him and Keegan Murray unavailable in trade discussions for Kuminga.
In addition to the Kings, the Suns have also been an active party in negotiations to acquire the forward. Although the Warriors showed no interest in a rumored package centered around Grayson Allen, the Suns appear to have updated their offer.
Reports suggest that the Suns’ current offer for Kuminga includes: Royce O’Neal, Nick Richards, and four second-round picks. The offer includes a capable wing defender, a solid big man, and notable draft compensation. Still, Spears reported it wasn’t “pretty enough” for the Warriors.
While the latest developments suggest where talks are heading, all parties remain at a stalemate.
Kuminga’s preference for the Kings is a positive development. The Warriors’ two-year, $40 million offer may be the most competitive deal Kuminga receives in free agency. However, a report by ESPN’s Shams Charania suggested that the Kings’ offer, though similar in annual salary, is a four-year, $90 million deal.
This offer also includes a player-option in the last year of his contract, unlike the Warriors’ deal, which supposedly presented a team-option.
Kuminga does have some sway over the situation, unlike most restricted free agents. His patience could complicate matters for the Warriors, as the rest of their offseason dealings remain on hold due to the 22-year-old’s stance.
Regardless, the Warriors have the final say in deciding Kuminga’s future. Having shown no interest in the current offers on the deal, the Dubs are optimistic that the forward will remain on their roster next season.
