Jonathan Kuminga heading for Warriors departure: several teams interested

The situation between Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors seems to have reached a point of no return. According to multiple league sources, the 23-year-old forward and the California franchise are heading toward a definitive separation before the February 5, 2025 trade deadline.

Kuminga, who hasn’t played since December 18 against the Phoenix Suns, is going through a difficult period in his relationship with the coaching staff led by Steve Kerr. The player and his camp believe it is in his best interest to stay ready on the sidelines without letting the coach’s decisions regarding his playing time affect his value on the trade market.

Several franchises positioned on the case

According to Kevin O’Connor of Yahoo Sports, at least three teams have been linked to Kuminga: the Portland Trail Blazers, the New Orleans Pelicans and the Washington Wizards. The Sacramento Kings, the Chicago Bulls and even the Dallas Mavericks are also among potential suitors according to various sources.

The New Orleans Pelicans stand out as the most attractive trade partner for Golden State. The Louisiana franchise possesses young forwards like Trey Murphy III and Herb Jones, who could immediately help the Warriors. However, the Pelicans have let league teams know that these two promising talents would require a high price, starting at a minimum of two unprotected first-round draft picks.

This season, Kuminga is averaging 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.8 assists in 18 games, with shooting percentages of 43.1% from the field and 32% from 3-point range. Internally, the Warriors believe that Jonathan Kuminga has already played his last game in their colors.

A mutually desired separation

There appears to be agreement between Warriors management and Kuminga’s camp that a trade will be completed during the next four weeks leading up to the trade deadline. The player will be eligible for trade on January 15, after signing a two-year extension for $46.8 million last September.

The Warriors maintain a high level of confidence that they will reach a deal involving Kuminga that will bring them at least one talent capable of immediately impacting their playoff aspirations. The organization is focused on adding a 3-point shooting wing capable of relieving Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green defensively.

As Golden State looks to maximize the final years of Stephen Curry‘s career, this separation from Kuminga seems inevitable. Both parties are ready to turn the page for a fresh start.

Jonathan Kuminga and his camp believe it is in his best interest to stay ready behind the scenes and no longer let Steve Kerr’s decisions regarding his minutes impact his value, per @BrettSiegelNBA

This is believed to be the reason Kuminga has not played recently pic.twitter.com/X5I2GpAihG

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) January 6, 2026