Jonathan Kuminga Trade Watch Ignites Warriors Talks

Merlin sees the Warriors increasingly expected to trade 23 year old Jonathan Kuminga when he becomes eligible on Jan 15. The Bulls, Kings and especially the Pelicans have shown interest, with Golden State eyeing Trey Murphy III as a likely target. Kuminga signed a late two year, $48.5 million deal so he is only tradable close to the deadline, and his recent slump and missed games will lower his market value. Merlin notes Golden State has few other movable contracts and may need to sweeten any deal to land a prized wing. Coach Steve Kerr said "Just because of the way our team looks," after Kuminga sat out, a reminder that rotations and fit matter as much as raw upside. Kuminga’s youth and price still make him a useful trade chip.