Since the start of the offseason, Jonathan Kuminga has reportedly been a target of the Chicago Bulls via a sign-and-trade deal. Kuminga, 22, is a restricted free agent this summer and has yet to reach an agreement with the Golden State Warriors over a new contract.
However, according to NBA Insider Jake Fischer, speaking via a Bleacher Report live stream, the Bulls may have scuppered their chances of landing Kuminga via sign-and-trade, as they’ve already moved on from Lonzo Ball, who they sent to the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier this summer. Ball could have been an enticing addition for Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Steve Kerr, primarily due to his playmaking and perimeter defense.
“I do know that Kuminga’s representation was trying to figure out some sign and trade scenario that would have gotten both Josh Giddey and Jonathan Kuminga paid in Chicago,” Fischer said. “And I think that was something that would have been more likely if the Bulls waited and had Lonzo Ball to send back to Golden State instead of the deal that they already made with Cleveland.”
Kuminga would be a strong addition for the Bulls. He could create a one-two punch with Josh Giddey. However, the Warriors are wise not to enter negotiations unless they believe a return package could help improve the current rotation. After all, Kuminga is a highly gifted young talent, and therefore, has a high asking price.
Golden State must figure out Kuminga’s future in the coming weeks. It’s looking increasingly likely they will sign him to an extension before exploring their trade options ahead of the trade deadline. However, nothing is guaranteed until he signs on the dotted line.
This post originally appeared on Warriors Wire! Follow us on Facebook and Twitter!