Jonathan Kuminga to the Lakers? The Warriors are looking to move him

Jonathan Kuminga is the subject of persistent trade rumors. The Golden State Warriors appear ready to part ways with the 23-year-old forward, with the Los Angeles Lakers among the interested teams before the trade deadline.

By@Nicolas Flamecourt

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Jonathan Kuminga to the Lakers? The Warriors are looking to move him

Dec 6, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson (20) during the second half at Rocket Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Photo Credit : © Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Jonathan Kuminga’s situation with the Golden State Warriors continues to deteriorate. According to The Athletic, the California organization and the forward are experiencing significant tension.

Declining performance and reduced role

The 23-year-old forward is going through a difficult period this season, posting averages of just 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists per game. His percentages have also dropped, with 43.1% from the field and 32% from 3-point range. Even more revealing, Kuminga hasn’t played since December 18 despite being healthy.

https://www.be-basketball.com/player/jonathan-kuminga

According to Tony Jones of The Athletic, the main problem lies in the player’s expectations: « He doesn’t want to be a role player, but rather a star. His self-awareness, in that sense, is non-existent. » Coach Steve Kerr wants Kuminga to use his athleticism to play off the gravity created by Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, but the player isn’t meeting those expectations.

The Lakers in pole position?

Among the suitors, the Los Angeles Lakers appear particularly interested. According to journalist Jake Fischer, « the Lakers’ known preference at this deadline is to acquire a true 3-and-D wing with size if possible ». Even more significant, « the Lakers called Golden State about Kuminga during the summer break in free agency » and « continue to monitor Kuminga’s situation ».

A hypothetical trade would see the Warriors receive Rui Hachimura, Jaxson Hayes and a 2031 first-round draft pick swap, while Kuminga would join LeBron James in Los Angeles. This transaction would allow the Lakers to strengthen their defense and rebounding, two areas of weakness this season.

Trade value at an all-time low

The challenge for Golden State will be finding an acceptable trade partner. Nick Friedell of The Athletic notes that Kuminga’s trade value is « at its lowest level ever » with less than a month until the deadline. The Sacramento Kings also remain interested, but the financial obstacles that prevented a sign-and-trade last summer still persist.