Why the Warriors refuse to include Buddy Hield or Moses Moody in a Jonathan Kuminga deal
May 14, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Anthony Edwards (5) dribbles the ball past Golden State Warriors guard Buddy Hield (7) in the first half during game five of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images
The future of Jonathan Kuminga with the Golden State Warriors remains uncertain as trade negotiations with the Sacramento Kings stall. According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Bay Area franchise categorically refuses to include Buddy Hield or Moses Moody in a potential sign-and-trade, significantly complicating discussions.
The 21-year-old Congolese finds himself at a contractual impasse with Golden State, where he has limited trust from the coaching staff. Despite mutual interest in a departure, the Warriors and Kings are struggling to find common ground on trade terms.
A quick (and belated) follow-up on the Jonathan Kuminga reporting from Friday: Anyone saying the first-round pick protections are the only obstacle to a Kings-Warriors sign-and-trade is wrong, as I’m told Golden State really doesn’t want to move either Buddy Hield or Moses Moody…
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) August 4, 2025
A complex financial structure dividing the franchises
Negotiations are hitting several crucial snags. On one hand, Sacramento is only offering a protected first-round pick, an offer deemed insufficient by Golden State. On the other hand, if Kuminga were to sign a three-year, $63 million contract as discussed, including Hield or Moody would become necessary to financially balance the trade with Malik Monk in return.
Steve Kerr considers both players essential to his system. Hield brings his 3-point shooting quality, despite a declining percentage to 37% last season, while Moody, only 22 years old, offers versatility and complementarity with the team’s core players.
A risky strategy against a Californian rival
The Warriors‘ reluctance to strengthen a direct Western Conference competitor is understandable, but this position could backfire. As Amick indicates, « the Warriors are signaling they expect Kuminga to be on their roster next season, » despite the October 1st qualifying offer deadline.
This deadlock risks creating more internal tensions, as Kuminga aspires to a bigger role elsewhere. The two months remaining before the deadline still leave time for a resolution, but the status quo seems increasingly likely if neither party makes significant concessions.
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