Jonathan Kuminga’s return after a lengthy 31-game absence hasn’t gone smoothly, as the young forward struggles to adjust to a new role on a Golden State Warriors squad that now includes six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler.
Since his return, the 22-year-old has averaged 14.0 points in 23.4 minutes over seven games but has shot just 42.3% from the field and a concerning 17.6% from three-point range. More troubling is the Warriors’ performance with him on the court—they are -40 in Kuminga’s minutes, the worst on the team by a wide margin, with no other player worse than -11 during that span.
A Difficult Decision Looms for the Warriors
Kuminga has become a major talking point for Golden State, as his career has consistently sparked debate between his current impact and long-term potential. While his recent struggles are clear, some argue that seven games are not enough to fully assess his form after recovering from a serious ankle sprain.
However, the financial aspect complicates matters. Future potential is easier to bank on when a player is still on a rookie contract, but Kuminga will no longer have that cushion after this season. With the Warriors needing to make a decision on his future, the stakes are high.
Before the season, Golden State opted not to extend Kuminga’s contract, leaving him set to become a restricted free agent. Meanwhile, they secured a deal with fellow fourth-year lottery pick Moses Moody, who signed a three-year, $37.5 million contract—one that looks like a bargain as he settles into a starting role.
Despite coming off the bench, Kuminga is expected to command a significantly larger deal. According to Spotrac’s Keith Smith, he could land a four-year, $100 million contract in free agency. If another team presents him with an offer at that level, the Warriors may face a heartbreaking decision—either match the deal or let their former seventh overall pick walk. Given the franchise’s investment in Kuminga and the numerous trade opportunities they passed up for him, moving on would be a difficult choice.
Yet, if his struggles persist throughout the season, Golden State may find it hard to justify such a contract—especially with major financial commitments already made to Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and now Butler.
Ultimately, the decision may hinge on how the rest of the season unfolds. Both Kuminga’s individual performance and the team’s ability to make a deep playoff run could play a crucial role in determining his future with the franchise.