Warriors Unwilling to Meet Kuminga’s Asking Price — Is It a Smart Move or a Big Mistake?
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly unwilling to meet Jonathan Kuminga’s contract demands, and it’s raising serious questions about the team’s direction. After a breakout season where he showed growth, athleticism, and defensive potential, Kuminga was expected to be a key part of Golden State’s future. Now, it seems a gap in valuation could shake things up.
Kuminga, just 22, posted career-best numbers last season, averaging 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and shooting over 52% from the field. He also improved his decision-making and started playing more within the Warriors’ system — a key development in Steve Kerr’s motion-heavy offense. His upside is clear: long, athletic, and still learning. But his camp reportedly wants a deal that reflects star-level potential, not just rotational value.
The Warriors, on the other hand, are in a transition phase. Steph Curry isn’t getting younger, and Klay Thompson is gone. With Draymond Green still on the roster and a front office balancing between win-now and build-for-later, committing big money to Kuminga could limit their flexibility.
So here’s the big question: Should Golden State pay up or play hardball?
Paying Kuminga now shows confidence in his trajectory and keeps a young core player locked in. He’s a rare two-way athlete who fits today’s fast-paced game. But overpaying could become a cap burden, especially if he doesn’t fully reach star potential. The Warriors already have high salaries tied up in veterans, and a big extension could hinder their ability to reload around Curry.
On the flip side, letting Kuminga walk or trading him might backfire — badly. He’s one of the few young players on the roster with clear upside and could thrive in a different system if given a larger role. Think of how other former Warriors (like Jordan Poole or even Andrew Wiggins at one point) exploded when they had freedom. Kuminga could be next.
There’s also the optics. Drafting a lottery talent, watching him grow, then letting him go over money? Not a great look for a franchise that once prided itself on smart development.
Possible Outcomes:
Sign him to a team-friendly extension now (if he’ll agree) to lock in a future star.
Trade him while his value is high and get picks or a proven role player.
Let the season play out, then decide based on performance — but risk losing him for nothing or paying more later.
️ What do you think, #DubNation?
Should the Warriors bet on Kuminga’s potential? Or are they right to hold the line?
Drop your take below. Let’s talk!
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