Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors continue to struggle to reach an agreement on a contract extension. With pressure mounting from team stars like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, can they influence the negotiations in Kuminga’s favor?
Stalled Contract Negotiations
Earlier this week, we provided an update on the ongoing negotiations between Jonathan Kuminga and the Warriors. In summary, Golden State made a three-year, $75 million offer, which was rejected by the young forward. The contention lies in a team option that Kuminga wishes to change to a player option. The franchise, however, turned down this request, resulting in a stalemate in the discussions.
Pressure from Team Leaders
This situation is increasingly weighing on the Warriors. Reports suggest that the team’s stars have started to apply pressure on the franchise’s leadership during the latter part of the summer, as noted by Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints.
“In recent weeks, Warriors veterans — Curry, Green, and Butler — have all been in communication with the team’s management to advocate for an agreement, according to sources.
They all want Kuminga back on the squad, as his athleticism, durability, and production are invaluable. His departure would be felt throughout an 82-game season.”
Jonathan Kuminga has experienced his share of ups and downs with coach Steve Kerr and the Warriors, but his potential as a 22-year-old forward is undeniable. He concluded the last season with commendable averages of 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds. While Golden State demonstrated its ability to win without him in the playoffs — where he was initially benched before capitalizing on injuries to shine — he remains a talented player who can significantly contribute throughout the long regular season, which is crucial for an aging team competing in a challenging Western Conference.
“Kuminga has expressed his willingness to help the team by accepting a lower salary, with his only request being the right to decide his own future (essentially, a player option). Stars like Steph, Draymond, and Jimmy are pushing the franchise to accommodate Kuminga’s request, according to sources.” — Brett Siegel
It remains to be seen whether the backing of Curry and his teammates can prompt the Warriors to make more concessions as training camp approaches. If no agreement is reached, Kuminga is likely to accept the qualifying offer, which could lead to his departure in free agency in 2026 without the franchise receiving any compensation.
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