Jonathan Kuminga isn’t just holding out for a bigger payday — he’s holding out for a bigger role with the Golden State Warriors.
The Warriors forward remains unsigned nearly a month into free agency, and according to Anthony Slater of ESPN, it’s not just about money. Kuminga is looking for a consistent starting spot — and the chance to be more than a fallback plan.
“Beyond the contract demands, Kuminga is in search of a more guaranteed, consistent starting role and featured opportunity,” Slater wrote. “That’s something both the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings have pitched.”
The Warriors have reportedly presented multiple offers, believing they’ve put forward the most competitive deal available. But Kuminga hasn’t budged. Slater noted that the 21-year-old forward is in “no rush” to accept the terms and that his agent continues to explore sign-and-trade options. So far, the Warriors have shown no interest in bad salary and are holding firm on asking for a first-round pick in return.
The market has been icy. But the message from Kuminga’s camp is heating up: he doesn’t want to be a secondary option anymore.
“Beyond the contract demands, Kuminga is in search of a more guaranteed, consistent starting role and featured opportunity, sources said. That’s something both the Suns and Kings have pitched.
Kuminga Wants More Than Just Minutes
Head coach Steve Kerr has reportedly been one of the loudest voices pushing to keep Kuminga in Golden State, per Slater. He’s told Kuminga that the team will rely on his scoring — especially on nights when Stephen Curry, 37, or Jimmy Butler, 35, are resting. But that’s not enough.
Kuminga wants a featured role — not just a fill-in one.
And he’s got a case. After being benched during the Houston Rockets series, Kuminga exploded in the second round, dropping 18, 30, 23, and 26 points in four straight playoff games against the Minnesota Timberwolves. His scoring punch was one of the few bright spots for the Warriors during that stretch.
Still, memories of riding the bench linger. And as the Warriors stall out in free agency — still the only team yet to sign or trade for a player — all eyes are on the standoff.
A Fresh Start Away From the Warriors?
The Suns and Kings are still in the mix. But neither has offered a package that moves the needle for the Warriors.
If Kuminga doesn’t get the deal he wants, he could take the Warriors’ one-year, $7.9 million qualifying offer. That would give him full control next summer, thanks to the built-in no-trade clause.
But this isn’t about waiting for a payday. It’s about leveling up.
Kuminga doesn’t want to be the next man up. He wants to be the man. Until the Warriors offer that — or someone else does — his offseason stays stuck.
Jonathan Kuminga Sends Strong Message to Warriors Front Office