Jonathan Kuminga Trade Teetering Between Warriors and Kings

Merlin sees a stalled trade between the Warriors and Kings over Jonathan Kuminga, with both sides saying a three-team deal is most likely if he lands in Sacramento. Golden State has been linked to Michael Porter Jr. in that structure, the Lakers hold some interest, and Kuminga has not played since Dec. 18 while averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists. Warriors are now harder about taking on contracts and rejected Sacramento’s Malik Monk plus a 2030 top-12 protected pick. Teammates said, "then he has to play" if he stays, and he is "still well-liked in the locker room." Merlin senses a young player convinced he can be a star clashing with a team that has limited room for him, so the deadline could get messy.