Jonathan Kuminga in action (Image via Instagram / @jonathan_kuminga) With training camp around the corner, the Golden State Warriors are facing a tricky roster puzzle. The uncertainty surrounding Jonathan Kuminga’s contract situation has slowed their free agency moves, forcing the team to consider signing mid-tier NBA veterans on short-term deals to ensure depth and flexibility.The Warriors are reportedly keeping tabs on experienced players who could help fill the roster if Kuminga’s situation isn’t resolved in time. Players like Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II are waiting on clarity, while others such as Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Dalano Banton have already visited the Chase Center for workouts, hinting at possible short-term deals.
Kuminga’s Contract Standoff Creates Roster Limbo
Jonathan Kuminga’s pending decision has become the central issue affecting the Warriors’ offseason planning. The team is unsure whether Kuminga will accept a one-year, $7.9 million qualifying offer or commit to a two-year, $40-45 million extension. Until this is resolved, the Warriors are hesitant to make further cap space commitments.This uncertainty has left free agents and veteran targets in a holding pattern. According to Monte Pool of NBC Sports Bay Area, players are “seeking clarity” from the Warriors as the offseason approaches its final stretch.
Free Agents Waiting on the Warriors
Al Horford (Image via Getty)
PlayerStatusNotes Al Horford Veteran free agent Awaiting offer De’Anthony Melton Veteran free agent Awaiting clarity Gary Payton II Veteran free agent Awaiting clarity Jeremiah Robinson-Earl Potential invitee Visited Chase Center for workout Dalano Banton Potential invitee Visited Chase Center for workout Quentin Grimes Restricted free agent Situation unresolved with Philadelphia 76ers
Exhibit 10 Deals Could Be a Solution
Sources from SF Standard’s Danny Emerman note, “Meanwhile, free agents potentially vying for training camp invites, including Jeremiah Robinson-Earl and Dalano Banton, have stopped by Chase Center for workouts recently, per sources. That’s typical for this time of year, but usually there would be more clarity on the types of opportunities that might be available.”These workouts suggest that the Warriors could pursue Exhibit 10 contracts, allowing these veterans to earn a roster spot through training camp performance while keeping the team’s financial flexibility intact.
Pressure to Act Quickly Before the Roster Window Closes
The Warriors’ indecision is adding pressure as the offseason winds down. Other teams are actively pursuing the same pool of free agents, and if the Warriors delay too long, they risk losing valuable depth.Monte Pool highlights that although August would have been an understandable time to wait, with September nearly here, “the prospective free agents are getting restless and are seeking ‘clarity,’” emphasizing that time is no longer on the Warriors’ side.Once Kuminga’s status is resolved, the team will need to act swiftly to finalize signings and avoid losing out on veteran help that could be crucial in the upcoming season.
What’s Next for the Warriors?
The Warriors’ next steps will depend on whether Kuminga accepts either contract option. If he chooses the qualifying offer, the team will have more room to sign players outright. If he opts for the extension, their cap space will shrink, making training camp invites and short-term deals the best way to maintain depth.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Denver Nuggets Looking to Bag $21 Million Chicago Bulls Star to Strengthen Championship PushThe Warriors’ approach reflects a balancing act between cap space management and roster readiness. How they navigate this window could define their competitiveness early in the season.