Kuminga Absent from Media Day as Deadline Looms
Breaking Down the Jonathan Kuminga and Golden State Warriors Contract Standoff
Kuminga Absent from Warriors Media Day Amid Contract Dispute
The ongoing contract negotiations between restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors have yet to reach a resolution. Kuminga, who did not travel to San Francisco over the weekend, will miss Monday’s media day, according to league sources. This absence underscores the lingering contract impasse as the NBA calendar kicks into high gear.
Warriors Management Stands Firm on Contract Offers
Golden State’s general manager, Mike Dunleavy Jr., has reportedly reached out to Kuminga’s agent, Aaron Turner, in an attempt to reignite discussions. However, no progress has been made toward finalizing a deal before the team commences practice on Tuesday. Despite the stalled talks, the Warriors have left three offers on the table:
- Two years for $45 million, including a team option on the final year.
- Three years for $75.2 million, with a team option in the last season.
- Three years for $54 million without any team option.
Kuminga expressed interest in a player option, which he views as a gesture of goodwill after what he describes as “years of confusion” about his role. Such an arrangement would alleviate concerns about fluctuating opportunities under coach Steve Kerr and potential midseason trades.
Implications of Kuminga’s Qualifying Offer
Kuminga holds significant leverage in these negotiations with an $8 million qualifying offer, set to expire Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. ET. While accepting this offer means forsaking an additional $15.3 million next season, it guarantees him an untradeable position and unrestricted free agency by 2026. This scenario poses a risk for the Warriors of losing their 2021 No. 7 draft pick without compensation.
Despite offers to avoid such an outcome, the team remains resolute in excluding player options from the deals. They anticipate Kuminga will either accept one of the existing proposals or opt for the qualifying offer before the deadline.
Roster Moves Hinged on Kuminga’s Decision
The uncertainty surrounding Kuminga has stalled much of Golden State’s roster management this summer. However, they have secured a multiyear commitment from Al Horford, contingent on the Kuminga resolution. Horford cannot sign or practice until Kuminga’s contract status is clarified. Additionally, the availability of veterans Gary Payton II and De’Anthony Melton for initial practices remains undecided.
After signing second-round rookie guard Will Richard, the Warriors have 13 players committed to the roster. Kuminga’s contract decision will determine whether he becomes the 14th and what financial flexibility remains to potentially sign a 15th player, with Seth Curry being a prospective addition if budget constraints permit.
