Jonathan Kuminga is a restricted free agent this offseason. Draymond Green spoke about his situation with the Warriors and dropped a hint on what might happen moving forward.
The Golden State Warriors‘ season has ended, and when the dust settles, the franchise will have to think about its offseason moves. Perhaps the biggest question mark on the roster is Jonathan Kuminga.
As the 7th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, expectations for Kuminga were very high. However, he hasn’t been able to develop as people thought he might in San Francisco.
The 22-year-old averaged 15.3 points per game during the regular season, but started just 10 games. He didn’t play significant playoff minutes until Stephen Curry got injured.
Steve Kerr eventually expressed his strong belief in Kuminga, and even legends like Dwyane Wade showed their support. Despite his great recent play, his future with the franchise is far from decided.
Draymond Green hints at Jonathan Kuminga not re-signing with Golden State
After Curry went down in the Timberwolves series, Kuminga took up a big offensive role. He averaged 20.8 points per game, shooting over 54% from the field and over 42% from three-point range.
These numbers might normally be enough for a player to feel secure in their future with a franchise. However, Draymond Green‘s answer on the youngster’s contract situation suggested otherwise.
“Obviously, JK’s got the contract situation,” Green said.
“Always wish him the best with that. Been in that situation. Whether it’s here or elsewhere, you just wish him the best.”
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The former DPOY’s words suggest that Kuminga could very well move elsewhere. He is a restricted free agent this offseason, and his talent could earn him some big offers from other teams in the league.
Jonathan Kuminga has a few interesting options during the offseason
The young Warriors star reportedly declined a 5-year, $150 million extension from Golden State before this season. After the year he’s had as a non-starter, he’s unlikely to get a contract that big.
But this doesn’t mean that Kuminga doesn’t have options. While he is likely to get an offer in the $20 million to $25 million range, Golden State could be priced out of matching it.
The Brooklyn Nets have long been linked with an interest, and they have significant cap space this summer. A big offer from them could very well result in the Warriors choosing not to match it.
The possibility of a sign-and-trade exists, although the new cap rules do make it unlikely. In an ideal world, the Warriors and Kuminga will figure something out. What will happen remains to be seen.
