Jonathan Kuminga Signs — Warriors Trade Whispers Persist

Jonathan Kuminga ended a summer standoff by signing a two-year, $48.5 million deal with a 2026–27 team option and a 15% trade kicker. The contract gives short-term security, but negotiations revealed friction — the Warriors reportedly offered multiple structures while Kuminga pushed for a player option — and he waived his no‑trade protection, meaning he can be moved as soon as Jan. 15. Merlin senses both promise and motion. Kuminga averaged 15.3 points last season and erupted for 24.3 in a playoff stretch without Curry, so he has real upside; Coach Steve Kerr stressed "Jimmy is an alpha" and that "Steph and Draymond are alphas... they run that locker room." As Shams Charania noted, "Over the past two months, the Warriors have had a standing offer..." The two-year path lets Kuminga bet on himself but also makes him a tradeable asset if Golden State seeks change.