About a week ago, Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr said he was “disappointed for Jonathan Kuminga,” whose stint with the Dubs could be coming to an end. Kerr admitted that the ultra-athletic forward was not an ideal fit in his system. The multi-titled coach continued that having Kuminga, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler for long stretches allowed opponents to punish the Dubs’ spacing and shooting.
On Thursday, ESPN reported that Kuminga demanded a trade from the team that drafted him No. 7 in 2021. Kerr responded when asked to comment on his relationship with the 23-year-old forward:
“Our relationship is fine. There’s not a whole lot I can say about the other stuff. It is what it is. Difficult situation for everybody. Part of this league. Part of the job. We just keep moving forward. It’s a tough situation.”
Jan. 15 is a significant date in Jonathan Kuminga’s contract. It marks the first day he becomes eligible for a trade. Instead of dwelling in the uncertainties of the future with the Feb. 5 trade deadline fast approaching, Kuminga informed the Warriors what he wanted.
In October, Steve Kerr said that Kuminga was a “secure starter,” when the 6-foot-7 forward averaged 17.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game. Poor shooting and a knee injury in mid-November quickly dropped him out of the starting unit. By December, Kuminga played just four games, even when healthy.
Kuminga has not played in 13 straight games heading into his trade eligibility date. His days in the Bay Area could be numbered despite his good relationship with Kerr.
Lakers reportedly interested in trading for Jonathan Kuminga
Jonathan Kuminga’s trade request only added to the frenzy surrounding the five-year forward. A new team has emerged in the chase for the athletic forward, according to The Athletic on Thursday. Per a report from Marcus Thompson II, Sam Amick and Nick Friedell, the LA Lakers are showing “some interest” in Kuminga.
In previous weeks, teams like the Brooklyn Nets and the New Orleans Pelicans were heavily linked to the Warriors. The Dubs were rumored to be interested in Nets sharpshooting forward Michael Porter Jr. and the Pelicans’ emerging star Trey Murphy III.
A trade seems imminent. Jonathan Kuminga, earning $22.5 million this season, hasn’t had much opportunity to help the Warriors, who are 22-19. Perhaps the Lakers could help end the longstanding stalemate between the two parties.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball and college baseball.
