The Golden State Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly considering trading young forward Jonathan Kuminga, particularly as the February trade deadline approaches. This move aligns with the team’s efforts last offseason, where they structured Kuminga’s contract into a more manageable two-year, $46.8 million deal, with the second year being a team option.
Recent Developments and Speculation
Recent developments have intensified speculation surrounding a potential trade, particularly after Kuminga was designated as a ‘Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision’ (DNP-CD) during a recent matchup against the Chicago Bulls. This decision came amid the absence of key players Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Al Horford, raising eyebrows about his value and role on the team. The benching followed a disappointing performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he managed to convert only one out of ten shots.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr sought to downplay the situation, explaining, “Just got to keep going, just like everybody else who’s in this position. It happens to everybody, pretty much, other than the stars.” He noted that player rotation is often contingent upon availability and performance.
Kuminga’s Performance This Season
Kuminga’s statistics this season reflect a tumultuous journey, with an average of 12.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game. His early season performance showed promise, boasting 16.2 points per game and impressive shooting at 53.7% over the first five games, contributing to the Warriors’ strong 4-1 start. However, following a decline in form, including a spell on the sidelines due to knee tendonitis, coach Kerr opted to shift Kuminga to the bench. Since returning, his numbers have dropped significantly, now averaging 7.8 points on just 30% shooting.
Trade Eligibility and Future Prospects
As the January 15th trade eligibility date approaches, insiders, including Anthony Slater from ESPN, indicate that Golden State will actively explore options for Kuminga. While there is potential interest from teams who previously showed interest, such as Sacramento and Phoenix, their current commitment to acquiring him remains uncertain due to shifting team dynamics. Additionally, Kuminga’s inconsistency in playing time under Kerr may undermine his trade appeal as the Warriors weigh their options leading up to the deadline.
