As this NBA offseason unfolded, Jonathan Kuminga found himself at the epicenter of swirling rumors, sign-and-trade scenarios, and mounting frustration—much of it his own. However, as of early August, it’s clear: Golden State has no intention of moving on from its gifted but restless forward.

According to multiple sources, Kuminga will be on the roster to start next season. He faces a simple but crucial choice: take the Warriors’ qualifying offer of $7.9 million or accept the team’s standing multi-year proposal, which so far he has repeatedly declined. 

The talks have been rife with tension over contract structure and future control. Kuminga’s camp has pushed for both more money and stronger player protections, including a no-trade clause or a player option, neither of which Golden State is willing to grant. Complicating matters further, the Warriors’ offer includes a team option for the second year.

Meanwhile, the young Congolese forward has watched his market grow cold as other teams, like the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings, lack the salary cap flexibility to sign him outright, limiting his avenues to only a potential (but now defunct) sign-and-trade scenario. 

The Warriors’ Calculated Bet

The front office’s approach signals clear intent. While Sacramento and Phoenix have entertained the idea of acquiring Kuminga, the Warriors have deemed all such packages insufficient.

Owner Joe Lacob is known to be a strong proponent of Kuminga’s development and wants to retain either the player or extract maximum value in any trade.

For Kuminga, the impasse is more than financial. He’s seeking a bigger role and greater respect, both of which he feels have been elusive with Golden State’s veteran-laden roster. Despite averaging 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds on efficient shooting last season, Kuminga was benched during key playoff moments, fueling his desire for a fresh start elsewhere.

Yet, as a restricted free agent with diminished leverage and no significant external offer sheets, the most likely scenario now has him returning in a “prove-it” year, hoping to test unrestricted free agency next summer at just 23.

What Happens Next?

Until Kuminga signs or a last-minute blockbuster trade emerges, the standoff looms over Golden State’s offseason strategy. The Warriors, notably inactive in the free agent market, are prioritizing this standoff’s resolution as they attempt to build around Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler.

For Kuminga, the next campaign looks destined to be a tension-filled audition, either as a Warrior or reshaping his narrative for other front offices. The message from Golden State is unmistakable: the team will not be strong-armed into a deal, and Kuminga’s future is theirs to decide, at least for now.