Jonathan Kuminga has broken his silence. The young forward has formally demanded a trade from the Golden State Warriors. Months of speculation and apparent indecision from the team's front office have finally pushed him to this point. Kuminga is ready to move on.
Trade Request Timing and Contract Details
This news emerged online just as Kuminga became eligible for a trade. According to ESPN reports, his current contract prevents any trade before Thursday, January 15th. He did not waste a single day. Immediately upon becoming eligible, Kuminga made his demand known.
The NBA's trade deadline falls on February 5th. This gives Kuminga roughly three weeks to assess his options and potentially secure a move to a new team. The clock is now ticking for both the player and the Warriors organization.
Kuminga's Rocky Journey with the Warriors
The Golden State Warriors drafted Jonathan Kuminga in 2021. They selected him with the seventh overall pick. He made his official NBA debut on October 30th of that same year. In that first game, a 103-82 victory over the City Thunder, Kuminga contributed 3 points and 1 steal.
His time with the franchise, however, has not been smooth. Over the past month, his role on the team visibly diminished. He found himself stuck in an uncertain position, with constant questions about his future with the Warriors. Now, it seems he has received clarity, but not the kind he wanted.
Coach Steve Kerr's Cryptic Comments
The situation became painfully public during a recent radio interview. On 95.7 FM The Game, host asked Warriors head coach Steve Kerr a direct question. The host noted that even when the bench empties during so-called garbage time, Kuminga often remains seated.
Kerr's response was telling. "I'm just saying it's a difficult situation," Kerr stated. "I think you guys know it. Everybody knows it. I'm just going to leave it at that. It's a difficult situation. And nobody's winning right now in this situation, and it's unfortunate, but it is what it is." His words highlighted the unresolved tension surrounding the player.
Financially, Kuminga is under contract. He signed a two-year deal worth $46 million with the Warriors in September 2025. This contract guarantees him an annual salary of $22.5 million for the 2025-26 season.
Statistical Snapshot and Future Prospects
Since his draft in 2021 through the 2026 season, Kuminga has appeared in 276 games for Golden State. He started only 97 of those contests, averaging 22.2 minutes per game. For a player in his fifth year, these numbers are underwhelming.
His current season statistics tell a similar story. He has played in just 18 of the team's 41 games. His averages stand at 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. His shooting percentages are 43.1% from the field and 32% from the three-point line.
Despite the recent struggles, several teams have shown interest. The Sacramento Kings and the Dallas Mavericks are among the franchises reportedly keen on acquiring Kuminga. His next destination remains an open question. Only time will reveal which uniform he wears next.
