The seventh pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jonathan Kuminga is regarded as a future cornerstone of the Warriors franchise. Standing at 6-foot-7, the Congolese forward has shown star-like potential. His explosive athleticism, scoring prowess, and other physical attributes make him stand out from the rest.
Currently, in his fourth year, Kuminga has found himself a permanent position in the Warriors’ starting five. The 22-year-old is averaging 15.4 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 2.0 APG, and 1.0 SPG thus far in the season. Unfortunately, this isn’t enough for the Bay Area to contend for a championship.
It’s no secret that Golden State has been on the hunt for an All-Star caliber player, especially after Klay Thompson‘s exit this summer. However, their reluctance to include Kuminga in any kind of trade talks continues to be a primary reason for their inability to land top-tier talent.
Jonathan Kuminga: The Untradable Warrior After Stephen Curry
Jonathan Kuminga – A Protected Asset of the Warriors
The recent acquisition of Dennis Schröder has been a welcome sign for head coach Steve Kerr and his crew. Nonetheless, as per reports, the Warriors had a chance to land Cam Johnson in the deal too, but refused to part ways with Kuminga.
REPORT: The Golden State Warriors would have had to include Jonathan Kuminga if they wanted to get BOTH Dennis Schroder & Cam Johnson in a trade from Brooklyn.
Warriors held onto Kuminga & scraped Schroder & one 2nd round pick from Brooklyn for De’Anthony Melton & three 2nd… pic.twitter.com/ke96DmN1xR
— Courtside Buzz (@CourtsideBuzzX) December 15, 2024
During the recent off-season, the Golden State’s front office made several attempts to acquire Paul George from the Clippers before he signed with Philly. One of the biggest reasons behind the failed move was the reluctance to include Kuminga in the trade talks.
Presently, in active pursuit of Heat star Jimmy Butler, Golden State’s chances seem slim, given their limited assets and defiance to trade Kuminga. It’s a critical situation for GM Mike Dunleavy and the front office, who cannot afford to waste Stephen Curry‘s window for another title run.
Why Are the Warriors Reluctant to Trade Kuminga?
As things stand today, the Warriors don’t have much artillery for when Curry decides to hang up his boots. The two-time MVP has played his entire career in the Bay Area, taking the franchise to new heights, delivering four championships between 2015 and 2022.
Nevertheless, Joe Lacob and Co. need to have a vision for the future as well. Here is where a talent such as that of Kuminga comes into play. In his four years with the Dubs so far, JK has shown consistent growth, with many comparing him to a Kawhi Leonard in the making.
Kuminga’s physical capabilities are yet to be explored to the fullest. A versatile defender, JK ticks most of the boxes for a wingman. No doubt, his shooting needs sharpening, but the Warriors forward has the guidance of the all-time 3-point leader in Curry to help him.
JK Could Cost Steph Curry his 5th Ring
Golden State’s hesitance to trade Kuminga could debar Curry from etching one of the greatest legacies in American sports. As presently constructed, the Warriors could at the most make the second round of the playoffs. Owner Lacob and the front office need to maximize Curry’s closing window for a 5th title.
To do so, they need to provide the 36-year-old some aid. Therefore, not including JK in any kind of trade discussions could prove to be a setback in terms of their present chances to win.
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