Jimmy Butler Calls Jonathan Kuminga Brother Amid Trade Rumors

Jimmy Butler made it simple and steady. He called Jonathan Kuminga his "brother" and said "His future, that's between him and whoever else," while urging Kuminga to "be the pro of pros" and "Come here and get your work done. Smile." Kuminga signed a two year, $48.5 million deal after a tense offseason, but he has dropped out of the rotation, meetings with Steve Kerr have not repaired the rift, and he becomes trade eligible on Jan. 15. The next move will shape Golden State’s rotation and Kuminga’s career path. Merlin sees loyalty and business traveling different roads. Butler’s public backing softens the narrative and may help Kuminga land with a team that values his upside. Still, fit, minutes and that contract make a trade likely unless the Warriors and player find quick common ground.