Golden State forward’s free agency saga continues as deadline looms
The Golden State Warriors’ offseason drama took another turn as Jonathan Kuminga is set to skip the team’s media day on Monday, September 29. The restricted free agent has yet to reach an agreement with the franchise on a new contract, leaving his immediate future in San Francisco uncertain.
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania and Anthony Slater, Kuminga did not travel to San Francisco over the weekend and remains away from the team. Despite ongoing discussions between Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and Kuminga’s agent Aaron Turner, no progress has been made toward a deal ahead of the team’s first practice on Tuesday.
The contract roadblock
Golden State has reportedly kept three offers on the table. The most lucrative packages include:
- Two years, $45 million (team option on the final season)
- Three years, $75.2 million (team option on the final season)
- Three years, $54 million (no team option)
The sticking point, sources say, is Kuminga’s desire for a player option in the final year of his deal—something the Warriors are unwilling to include.
With the October 1 deadline approaching, Kuminga faces a crucial choice: accept one of Golden State’s offers, sign his qualifying offer, or test his leverage further.
Kuminga’s recent performance
The 21-year-old forward is coming off a season marked by flashes of promise and inconsistency. In 47 appearances (10 starts), Kuminga averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 24.3 minutes per game. While his athleticism and scoring ability make him a valuable asset, his role within the Warriors’ rotation has often fluctuated.
What’s next for Golden State and Kuminga?
If Kuminga declines Golden State’s proposals, he could position himself for unrestricted free agency in 2025. However, the Warriors are unlikely to explore a sign-and-trade scenario this late in the offseason, particularly given their reluctance to absorb contracts with player options, such as Sacramento guard Malik Monk’s deal.
That leaves the standoff at a critical point. Kuminga’s absence from media day only underscores the growing divide, and unless one side softens its stance, his long-term future with the Warriors appears increasingly uncertain.