Stephen Curry and Jonathan Kuminga (Image via Imagn) The Golden State Warriors are at a crossroads as Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency saga continues to unfold. Despite being just 22 years old and a former No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Kuminga appears set to move on after failed contract talks with the franchise. Now, all eyes are on a potential sign-and-trade that could reshape Golden State’s future—and Sacramento Kings’ Malik Monk and Keon Ellis have emerged as possible game-changing targets.
Kuminga’s Stalemate with the Golden State Warriors
Jonathan Kuminga’s frustration with Golden State stems from a belief that the team has limited his development. As the restricted free agent remains unsigned, the Golden State Warriors and Kuminga’s camp have actively sought a sign-and-trade deal—but with limited success so far.
Teams Interested in Kuminga:
• Chicago Bulls • Phoenix Suns • Sacramento KingsAmong the interested teams, the Sacramento Kings have reportedly taken the most serious approach, initiating trade talks with a formal proposal.
Kings’ Initial Offer and Warriors’ Demands
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Sacramento’s first offer included:
Original Kings Offer:
Jonathan Kuminga in action (Image via Instagram / @jonathan_kuminga)
PlayerRole Dario Šarić Frontcourt depth Devin Carter Rookie guard with upside 2 Second-Round Picks Draft capitalThat offer was later revised to include a protected first-round pick instead of the two seconds. However, the Golden State Warriors countered with a much more ambitious ask, reportedly seeking Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis, indicating a desire to maximize the return around their core of Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green heading into 2025-26.“Malik Monk’s name has also been brought up in dialogue between the two parties, yet negotiations have not made it past the Kings’ initial offer and the Warriors’ counterproposal, which includes the likes of Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis,” ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel wrote.
Why the Golden State Warriors Must Target Malik Monk and Keon Ellis
Even though Sacramento has shown no inclination to part with Murray or Ellis, Golden State has valid reasons to keep pressing.
Malik Monk: Elite Sixth Man Production
A seasoned combo guard and former Sixth Man of the Year runner-up, Monk averaged 17.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.8 rebounds during the 2024-25 season—career-highs across the board. Known for his explosive scoring off the bench, he could give the Warriors a much-needed offensive spark behind Curry and Butler.
Keon Ellis: 3-and-D Gem
Ellis, 25, is emerging as one of the most efficient two-way guards in the league. In 2024-25, he shot an elite 43.3% from beyond the arc, while also averaging 8.3 points and 1.5 steals per game. At 6’6”, Ellis brings switchable defense and reliable perimeter shooting—an ideal fit for Steve Kerr’s motion offense.
Potential Impact of Monk & Ellis:
• Instant scoring off the bench (Monk) • Elite perimeter shooting (Ellis) • Improved defensive depth • Long-term backcourt security post-Curry
A Trade That Could Shape Golden State’s Future
While a Monk-Ellis package seems unlikely based on current reports, the Golden State Warriors may not back down from their demands. With Kuminga’s departure looking increasingly inevitable, acquiring proven and impactful players like Monk and Ellis could be the boost Golden State needs to stay competitive in a stacked Western Conference.Also read: NBA Trade News: New York Knicks Mikal Bridges Agrees to $150 Million Contract ExtensionIf Golden State can engineer such a trade, it wouldn’t just address immediate concerns—it would provide the franchise with building blocks for life after Curry, all while keeping them in the playoff hunt for the foreseeable future.