Kuminga Faces Deadline for Warriors Contract Decision

SAN FRANCISCO — Jonathan Kuminga is nearing a pivotal decision regarding his future with the Golden State Warriors. As the restricted free agent approaches the Oct. 1 deadline, team sources say options are still on the table.

The 22-year-old forward has until the start of training camp next week to accept the Warriors’ qualifying offer of $7.9 million for the 2025-26 season. Accepting this offer would make him an unrestricted free agent next summer, granting him more control over his future.

If he rejects this offer, he may choose from several other contracts presented by the Warriors, although they come with less lucrative guarantees. Team sources have indicated negotiating uncertainty still looms, particularly concerning a potential sign-and-trade scenario with the Sacramento Kings.

After a lull in discussions over the summer, the Kings and Warriors resumed talks this week about a trade that could involve veteran guard Malik Monk, alongside a protected 2030 first-round pick. However, the Warriors’ interest in Monk has been lukewarm due to his hefty contract.

Even if the Kings are willing to part with Monk and the pick, the Warriors have shown reluctance to disrupt their roster by trading one of their players, Buddy Hield or Moses Moody, in exchange for salary cap relief. Their hesitation to make significant roster changes indicates a steadfast commitment to their current lineup.

These discussions have highlighted the tightrope the Warriors are walking, trying to balance short-term success with the long-term future of their franchise. With Kuminga’s recent play not perfecting his status as a lottery pick, it’s uncertain whether the Kings will budge on their trade proposals.

In the coming days, the outcome rests heavily on how both teams navigate their positions. Kuminga must weigh immediate financial security against the freedom that might come with waiting another season.

As the deadline approaches, his choice will significantly impact not just his career but the Warriors’ prospects for the future, particularly as they seek to extend their competitive window with superstar Steph Curry.