The Golden State Warriors find themselves in a pivotal spot this offseason as they weigh their options regarding 22-year-old forward Jonathan Kuminga. Now a restricted free agent, the former seventh overall pick isn’t expected to leave the Bay Area without the team receiving something in return.
From the outset of the offseason, Golden State has been actively exploring sign-and-trade possibilities to find a suitable destination for Kuminga.
Several teams—including the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, and Chicago Bulls—initially expressed interest in acquiring the promising forward.
Head coach Steve Kerr had benched Kuminga late in the regular season and into the early stages of the playoffs, casting doubts over his role with the team.
However, Kuminga responded with a breakout performance in the second round, especially stepping up in the absence of Steph Curry. His playoff contributions reminded everyone of his untapped potential and raised his trade value significantly—though not without lingering skepticism.
Despite the early buzz, interest from suitors appears to be cooling off. According to a new report from Joe Cowley of the Chicago Sun-Times, the Bulls—once seen as a serious contender to land Kuminga—have now pulled back from discussions.
With interest waning and Golden State unwilling to let Kuminga walk for nothing, the Warriors must now reassess their strategy and decide whether to recommit to the young talent or continue seeking a trade that aligns with their long-term plans.
“And rumors the Bulls were interested in a sign-and-trade deal for the Warriors’ Jonathan Kuminga have quieted substantially,” Cowley wrote.
With interest in Jonathan Kuminga fading rapidly, the growing belief is that the young forward will remain with the Warriors for the upcoming season. However, a trade ahead of next year’s deadline is still very much a possibility.
Kuminga continues to show flashes of star potential, but if head coach Steve Kerr doesn’t see him as a long-term fit within Golden State’s system, it’s difficult to imagine the former lottery pick having a lasting future with the franchise.
