The Golden State Warriors have officially extended a $7.9 million qualifying offer to Jonathan Kuminga, making him a restricted free agent, according to sources close to the team. Kuminga, selected with the 7th pick in the 2021 draft, is a priority for the Warriors heading into free agency, which begins on June 30. According to information provided, the Brooklyn Nets are the only team that could offer Kuminga a starting salary of 20 million dollars or more. The Warriors have the right to match any offer and can also explore sign-and-trade options. Kuminga’s future could influence the Warriors’ decisions in free agency and how to reinforce the team around Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. The Warriors are looking to reinforce their roster with a center, greater shooting ability, defense, and playmaking. Kuminga averaged 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds last season. He played in 47 regular season games, missing 31 games due to an ankle injury. After Kuminga’s return, the team experienced significant changes. At the end of the season and in the playoffs, his playing time was affected, although Butler and Curry’s injuries gave him more opportunities. In the last four games of the series against Minnesota, Kuminga averaged 24.2 points with Curry out.
Kevon Looney and Gary Payton II, important players for the Warriors, are also free agents. Dunleavy stated that the Warriors will be “in the mix” in the trade market, looking for opportunities to improve the roster. “We have some free agents who are a priority. We have to handle that. But some of those things can lead us to trades and other things.” “With our strategy group and salary cap, those guys are really good. It’s difficult to say, honestly, what’s available and what could happen [in the transfer market]. But we will definitely be in the mix. I think we’ve shown a history of doing that.”I think we’re in a good situation, honestly.
Mike Dunleavy Jr., GM of the Warriors
