The Phoenix Suns are aggressively pursuing Jonathan Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors, but their trade talks have hit an unexpected wall. While Phoenix has made a substantial four-year, $90 million offer to the restricted free agent, the Warriors simply aren’t interested in what the Suns are willing to give up in return. This leaves Kuminga in a precarious position, forced to choose between forcing his way out or playing through another season in Golden State’s crowded rotation.
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Why Are the Golden State Warriors Rejecting Phoenix’s Trade Package?
After their second-round playoff exit to Anthony Edwards and the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Warriors made a surprising decision to stand pat this offseason. The team acquired Jimmy Butler midway through the 2024-25 season, which significantly reduced Kuminga’s role and raised questions about his future with the organization.
Despite the strained relationship, Golden State isn’t budging on trade discussions with Phoenix. The Suns moved on from Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, creating the cap space necessary to pursue Kuminga with their aggressive contract offer. However, the Warriors’ front office remains unimpressed with what Phoenix is putting on the table.
“Per team sources, the talks between the Suns and Warriors have never progressed in any serious manner,” according to reports. “So while it’s certainly notable that Phoenix is being so aggressive with its contract offer, four years and a combined $90 million, per ESPN, that part is irrelevant so long as Golden State continues to show zero interest in what the Suns have to offer.”
The Warriors already extended Kuminga a qualifying offer, which he rejected. This gives Golden State the right to match any offer sheet he signs, but it also means they can retain him for the 2025-26 season regardless of outside interest.
What Does Jonathan Kuminga’s Playoff Performance Mean for His Value?
Kuminga’s value became crystal clear during the Warriors’ playoff series against Minnesota. When Stephen Curry was sidelined, the young forward stepped up in a major way, averaging 24.3 points during those games. This performance showcased exactly why the Warriors are reluctant to part with him for an underwhelming return package.
That playoff showing demonstrates Kuminga’s ability to be a primary scoring option when given the opportunity. The Warriors recognize this value, which explains their reluctance to accept what they view as an insufficient trade package from Phoenix.
Kuminga now faces a difficult decision that could shape the next phase of his career. He can attempt to force a trade, though this approach carries significant risks and could backfire if no team meets the Warriors’ asking price. Alternatively, he could play out the 2025-26 season under the qualifying offer and become an unrestricted free agent, allowing him to leave Golden State without the team receiving any compensation.
The second option would be costly for the Warriors, who would lose a valuable young asset for nothing. However, their current stance suggests they’d rather take that risk than accept what they consider an inadequate return from Phoenix or other interested teams.
As the offseason continues, this standoff between player, current team, and suitor creates one of the more intriguing storylines heading into the 2025-26 season.