Warriors View Jonathan Kuminga As Untouchable?

The Warriors unsuccessfully tried to convince the Lakers to consider trading LeBron James prior to February’s deadline. A subsequent report stated Golden State plans to pursue James and other stars this offseason.

One of Golden State’s most interesting trade chips is young forward Jonathan Kuminga, who had a breakout third season in 2023/24, particularly after he had a well-publicized meeting with Steve Kerr regarding his lack of playing time.

In his first 33 games, including 12 starts, Kuminga averaged 12.8 points and 4.1 rebounds on .506/.280/.688 shooting in 22.1 minutes per contest. In the 41 games (34 starts) following the meeting, he averaged 18.7 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 2.8 APG and 0.9 SPG on .542/.360/.787 shooting in 29.7 MPG.

Appearing on 95.7 The Game (Twitter link), ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne was asked, “To what level is Jonathan Kuminga on the table (in trades this summer)?

Not at all,” Shelburne replied. “… I think they’ll do everything they can to keep him. I don’t think they even want to talk about him.”

Shelburne pointed out that Golden State has other appealing assets, such as young players and future first-round picks. The Warriors also have ways to match salaries if they pursue a blockbuster deal.

Shelburne’s reporting aligns with what GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. said in February, when he referred to Kuminga as “virtually” untouchable after the trade deadline.

Kuminga will become eligible for a rookie scale extension in July. If he and the Warriors don’t agree to an extension by the start of the 2024/25 season, Kuminga will be eligible for restricted free agency during the summer of 2025.

For his part, Kuminga said in March he wants to be a “Warrior for life.”

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