Jonathan Kuminga’s restricted free agency continues to be a dark cloud over the Golden State Warriors. The former lottery pick has resisted multiple offers from the franchise throughout the summer and is now closing in on his October 1. deadline, where he must either sign his qualifying offer or the three-year deal currently on the table.
In recent days, it’s been reported that the Golden State re-engaged in sign-and-trade talks with the Sacramento Kings. However, it would appear those talks have since hit a wall, as the Warriors are unwilling to take Malik Monk back in the deal due to his player option for the 2027-28 season. In a recent appearance on the “Willard & Dibs” show, The Athletic’s Tim Kawakami shared his doubt that Golden State would have struck a deal with the Kings.
“I don’t think there’s going to be a trade. The Kings thing’s never made sense to me… Kuminga has $48M guaranteed on the table. Does he take it or does he not? Around the league, people are stunned it’s gone this far,” Kawakami said.
Monk would undoubtedly be a strong addition to the Warriors’ rotation. However, if the Warriors are making decisions with one eye on the future, then it makes sense why they would want to avoid adding him to the rotation. And while that will undoubtedly be a blow to both Kuminga and the Kings, it’s the smart thing to do for the future of the franchise, after all, financial flexibility is how you avoid a long and drawn-out rebuilding process.
Kuminga still has a tough decision to make, but at least it will be a clear choice without the allure of moving to Sacramento hanging in the air over the next few days.
This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!