Jonathan Kuminga in action (Image via Instagram / @jonathan_kuminga) The Golden State Warriors are exploring a surprising trade option as they weigh the future of restricted free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga. According to insider Jake Fischer of The Stein Line, Golden State has expressed strong interest in New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III, an All-Defensive selection in 2024 who could fill a vital role for the team.
Kuminga Negotiations Stalling Golden State Warriors’ Roster Moves
The Golden State Warriors’ offseason has largely stalled due to ongoing negotiations with Kuminga. Talks between the team and the 21-year-old forward remain far apart, even as multiple suitors have circled with interest.Teams like the Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, and Chicago Bulls reportedly inquired about Kuminga in sign-and-trade scenarios. Phoenix’s offer even reached $90 million, but Golden State has refused to part with wings like Buddy Hield or Moses Moody, prioritizing shooting depth around Stephen Curry.The Golden State Warriors themselves offered Kuminga a two-year deal worth over $45 million, with a team option for the 2026-27 season. However, the forward has been hesitant, believing the deal could make him trade bait by midseason.
Kevon Looney Departs, Warriors Still Short on Roster
Trey Murphy (Image via Getty)
While negotiations drag, longtime Warrior Kevon Looney signed with the New Orleans Pelicans on a two-year, $16 million deal. His departure leaves Golden State with six open standard roster spots.
Warriors Tested Blockbuster Waters with LeBron
In a surprising revelation, Fischer reported that Golden State even reached out to the Los Angeles Lakers about the possibility of trading for LeBron James. While the Warriors have admired the four-time champion for years, his $52.6 million expiring contract presents major challenges in terms of salary matching.
Trey Murphy III Emerges as a Realistic Target
Instead, Trey Murphy III appears to be the more attainable target for Golden State. The 25-year-old forward, known for his length, defensive presence, and three-point shooting, is entering the 2025-26 season on a $25 million contract.“Sources say that the Warriors have a strong affinity for Murphy and have made outreach to New Orleans as recently as this summer,” Fischer wrote. “Yet sources say that the Pelicans, to be clear, have batted away calls for the 25-year-old, valuing him highly.”Murphy’s combination of defense and floor-spacing makes him an appealing fit next to Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green. As Fischer explained: “You could certainly understand why the Warriors would want Murphy. It’s not hard to picture his length, defensive prowess and 3-point shooting meshing nicely alongside Curry, Butler and Draymond Green.”
Potential Competition from Spurs
The Golden State Warriors are not the only team monitoring Murphy. The San Antonio Spurs have also shown interest in a possible deal, though prying him away from New Orleans may prove costly.
Trey Murphy III: Player Snapshot
Here are a few things you need to know about Trey MurphyAttributeDetail Age 25 Team New Orleans Pelicans Contract $25 million (2025-26 season) Strengths Defense, 3-point shooting, size Career 3PT % 38% Honors 2024 NBA All-Defensive Team
What This Means for Golden State
The Golden State Warriors’ pursuit of Murphy highlights the front office’s intent to surround their veteran core with defensive-minded shooters. With Curry still performing at an elite level and Jimmy Butler now in the mix, Golden State’s path back to contention may hinge on finding the right role players.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Potentially Eyeing $42 Million Denver Nuggets Star to Support LeBron-Luka Deadly DuoMurphy checks nearly every box – but his high value to the Pelicans could make negotiations difficult. For now, Golden State’s future rests heavily on how the Kuminga situation unfolds and whether they can pull off a deal that strengthens the roster without sacrificing shooting depth.