The Golden State Warriors have hit the bottom working this season, thanks partly to Steve Kerr’s strategic lineup changes.
Amongst these modifications, rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis has made probably the most of his beginning alternatives, whereas Jonathan Kuminga has discovered his rhythm main the second unit, a job that appears to go well with him higher than beginning.
Kuminga’s obvious consolation coming off the bench might need deeper implications, particularly given the latest buzz round his future with the group.
After unsuccessful contract extension talks between the Warriors and Kuminga, commerce hypothesis has begun to floor.
One NBA insider just lately shed some gentle on the Warriors’ technique concerning Kuminga’s contract standing.
“The reason I don’t think they extended him is because, if this is going well this year, as they come into the trade deadline and a star player is available, they’re going to lead a package with Jonathan Kuminga,” Brian Geltzeiler mentioned on “Steiny & Guru,” through 95.7 The Recreation.
.@BGeltzNBA through @SteinyGuru957 pic.twitter.com/rqgSFbWY5u
— 95.7 The Recreation (@957thegame) October 31, 2024
Geltzeiler factors to common supervisor Mike Dunleavy’s shrewd roster development, particularly the gathering of contracts that would show precious in commerce situations.
By combining these contracts with Kuminga, the Warriors may probably pursue a participant within the $40 million vary, particularly with their inventory of draft picks.
The contract standoff is smart from each views.
The Warriors are understandably hesitant to supply Kuminga a max contract with out additional proof of his potential, whereas Kuminga sees no cause to just accept much less when an All-Star caliber season may result in an enormous deal, both with Golden State or elsewhere.
As a restricted free agent, the Warriors would have the ability to match any supply he receives and keep the flexibleness to maintain him no matter wage cap constraints.
For now, Kuminga appears content material betting on himself, a chance that would repay handsomely if he continues to develop.
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