Kuminga Doesn’t Accept Warriors’ Offers: Seeks New Path in the NBA

Kuminga Seeking New Contract: Stalled Negotiations with the Warriors

Restricted forward Jonathan Kuminga is in no rush to sign the latest contract offer from the Golden State Warriors, according to Shams Charania of ESPN after a morning workout in Miami. Kuminga’s stalemate with the Warriors could extend significantly into the offseason as he explores other opportunities. General Manager Mike Dunleavy and the Warriors’ management showed motivation in conversations with Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, presenting what they consider a fair offer for Kuminga to return for a fifth season, despite the ups and downs of their relationship over the past four years. However, Kuminga has not found the offer attractive, so negotiations remain at a standstill, which will likely put other Warriors moves on hold this offseason. They are the only NBA team that has not signed or traded any player this summer. The Warriors and Kuminga did not exchange contract figures before free agency. Turner has spent much of July looking for “sign-and-trade” opportunities, with the most tangible interest from the Phoenix Suns and the Sacramento Kings. Both teams are staying out of the negotiations, trying to involve the Warriors in possible deals, but without making significant progress. The Warriors do not want to add salaries they consider unfavorable, they are looking for a promising young player and have insisted on requesting a first-round pick in any “sign-and-trade” deal for Kuminga. Phoenix does not have a first-round pick available to offer. The market for restricted free agents has been cold due to the lack of salary cap space in the league. The Warriors anticipated this situation and believe they have offered Kuminga the highest starting salary currently available.

Although they were optimistic about their most recent proposal, Kuminga did not accept it. His team will continue to look for “sign-and-trade” opportunities in the hope that something will come up. They also have the option of Golden State’s qualifying offer.

Jonathan Kuminga is seeking a more consistent and guaranteed starting role, as well as greater playing opportunities, according to ESPN sources.Kuminga has a one-year, $7.9 million offer in place that the Warriors can no longer withdraw. He has until October 1st to accept it. If he chooses that route, Kuminga would forgo some immediate money, but would return with an expiring contract with an inherent no-trade clause, giving him the most long-term control over his career. Meanwhile, the Warriors have been cautious about closing any other official personnel matters until Kuminga’s situation is resolved, allowing them the greatest possible financial and roster flexibility, given the unpredictable nature of the situation.