Warriors want to hold him back, he wants to break free: Kuminga’s ultimatum that could shake the franchise’s balance

After weeks of silence, negotiations between Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors have finally resumed. The 22-year-old forward, a restricted free agent since this summer, seeks a contract that recognizes his importance in the California franchise’s long-term plans.

According to NBA insider Anthony Slater from ESPN, « there has been movement in discussions between both parties. There’s dialogue, but as you know, talking doesn’t necessarily mean progress. They exchanged contract ideas and opinions on the matter over the last week and since last weekend. »

Jonathan Kuminga believes he’s on the same level as Cade Cunningham & Scottie Barnes and wants to be paid like it. 👀

per @ronkroichick pic.twitter.com/ZV0pfjQp3g

— NBA Retweet (@RTNBA) August 17, 2025

Kuminga refuses to be a « pawn » in Warriors’ plans

The core conflict lies in the diverging ambitions of both parties. « Kuminga wants a more favorable deal, more as a sign that he’s a key piece of the future, not just a trade asset, » explains Slater. The player’s entourage even used the term « pawn » to describe what he refuses to become.

The Kuminga camp categorically rejects a two-year contract with a team option, considering it would make him merely a tradeable asset during the season. « He doesn’t want to sign that two-year, $45 million contract with a team option where he would clearly just be used as a mid-season trade piece, » specifies the ESPN insider.

However, a three-year contract with a player option would be seen as a more positive signal, similar to what Jalen Green signed with the Houston Rockets last season. This formula would give the player more control over his future.

Steve Kerr admits his struggles with young players

The situation is further complicated by recent statements from coach Steve Kerr, who admitted his shortcomings in developing young talent. « I really lean on my young coaches. One of the ways the league is so different now is that we’re a development league. Frankly, I’m not very good at that. I’m an older coach, a disciple of Phil [Jackson] and Pop [Gregg Popovich], » Kerr confided on the Glue Guys podcast.

This timing is unfortunate as Kuminga, selected 7th in the 2021 draft, has expressed frustration about his limited role. Despite encouraging performances late last season (24.3 points per game in his last four outings with 55% shooting), Kerr had relegated him to a situational role in the playoffs.

The February 2025 deadline now appears as the crucial timeline to resolve this impasse. If no agreement is reached by then, a trade seems inevitable, with current financial restrictions limiting sign-and-trade options until that period. Both parties know time is running out to find a satisfactory solution.