Jonathan Kuminga’s Contract Stalemate Continues as NBA Season Approaches

SAN FRANCISCO — The contract stalemate concerning restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors continues as the NBA season nears its start. Kuminga did not travel to San Francisco for media day on Monday and will not attend practices until his contract situation is resolved, according to league sources.

Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. reached out to Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, on Sunday, but no progress has been made toward a potential contract before the team’s first practice on Tuesday. The Warriors currently have three contract offers on the table, including a two-year offer worth $45 million and a three-year proposal at $75.2 million, both featuring team options in the final season. The only offer without a team option stands at $54 million over three years.

Kuminga has rejected these deals, expressing interest in a contract that includes a player option. He views this as a gesture of goodwill, given previous misunderstandings regarding his role within the team and the uncertainty about his playing time under head coach Steve Kerr.

The deadline for Kuminga to accept a one-year qualifying offer of $8 million is Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET. Accepting this offer would mean he forgoes $15.3 million next season but would secure him a no-trade clause and unrestricted free agency in 2026, potentially opening up opportunities with at least 10 teams with salary cap space.

Despite the looming uncertainty surrounding Kuminga, the Warriors managed to secure multiyear commitments from other players this weekend. However, the team’s plans for additional roster moves hinge on Kuminga’s decision.

Star player Stephen Curry commented on the situation, acknowledging Kuminga’s need to sort his contract issues but expressing confidence that when he returns, Kuminga will be ready to contribute effectively to the team. “When he’s here ready to work, we expect him to be locked in on doing what he needs to do to help us win,” Curry said.

The ongoing negotiations with Kuminga have affected the Warriors’ offseason roster decisions, as they await clarity before finalizing their lineup. The team’s success this season hinges on resolving Kuminga’s contract and integrating him into their championship aspirations.