The Golden State Warriors could be set to reunite with veteran guard Gary Payton II on a new deal in free agency — but not until Jonathan Kuminga‘s future is finally settled one way or the other.
Payton has been one of several players around the league affected by the current restricted free agency freeze, with Kuminga headlining a group that includes Josh Giddey, Quentin Grimes, and Cam Thomas whose futures remain in limbo.
With only nine players currently under contract, the Warriors are expected to make multiple moves once Kuminga’s situation is resolved. And that likely includes bringing Payton back into the fold.
On ESPN’s NBA Today, senior insider Marc Spears shared a telling quote from a recent conversation with the 2022 NBA champion. When asked about his free agency plans, Payton replied: “Waiting on JK.”
Warriors’ Plans for Horford, Payton on Ice
Unlike Kevon Looney, who quickly signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the New Orleans Pelicans on the first day of free agency, Payton has remained unsigned through August.
That patience might be a sign of assurance from Golden State’s front office. Payton has yet to be linked to any rival team, beyond a short-lived Los Angeles Lakers rumor that fizzled once the Lakers landed Marcus Smart on a buyout.
Payton II just completed a three-year, $27 million contract and would likely return on a veteran minimum deal. Injuries have limited his impact over the last two seasons, but the Warriors still value his on-ball defense, versatility, and leadership in the locker room. With De’Anthony Melton expected to be their primary backcourt addition — though he has yet to officially sign with the team — bringing back Payton would further bolster Golden State’s perimeter defense and depth.
Payton and Melton aren’t alone in the waiting room. Al Horford is also expected to join the Warriors. But like Payton — and Melton — he appears to be waiting for the Kuminga situation to be resolved before making anything official.
Three veterans. One bottleneck. Until the Warriors move forward on Kuminga, everything else stays on hold.
Kuminga Declines $45M Offer From Warriors
GettyJonathon Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors.
The stalemate began when Shams Charania and Anthony Slater reported that Jonathan Kuminga had turned down a two-year, $45 million offer from Golden State. The deal included a team option. It offered the Warriors flexibility — but little long-term security for Kuminga.
Kuminga, represented by agent Aaron Turner, has been linked to sign-and-trade interest from the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns. But Golden State is holding out. They want a young player. A first-round pick. And no bad salary in return — a package that hasn’t materialized.
“Waiting on JK”: Payton’s Telling Response
It’s become clear just how much this standoff is affecting Golden State’s plans. The offseason has been frozen. And possibly their championship hopes along with it.
The Warriors’ window is still open. But the front office is running out of time. They need to get the right pieces around Stephen Curry.
Until then, Payton, Horford, Melton, and the rest of the roster rebuild will remain on pause. Waiting on JK.
Warriors Champion’s 3 Words Say It All About Kuminga