Golden State Warriors Preparing to Trade Jonathan Kuminga Before February Deadline

January 6, 2026 — The Golden State Warriors are reportedly preparing to part ways with Jonathan Kuminga, with a trade expected before the February NBA deadline, according to Brett Siegel of Clutch Points. The decision comes after a prolonged absence from the court and mutual understanding between the player and the organization regarding his future.

Kuminga has not played in the last nine games, sitting out seven of them as a coach’s decision not to risk him for the team’s immediate needs. Sources indicate that his representatives have been carefully managing his workload to prevent injury ahead of a likely trade. There is a shared understanding between the Warriors and Kuminga’s camp that a deal will be finalized over the next four weeks.

The young forward officially becomes eligible for a trade on January 15. Kuminga signed a two-year, $46.8 million extension as a restricted free agent in early October, which includes a $22.5 million cap hit for this season and a $24.3 million team option in the second year. Additionally, he is set to receive a trade bonus of roughly $1.7 million if he is moved on the first day he becomes eligible.

Interest in Kuminga has been steady since the summer, particularly from struggling Western Conference teams. The Sacramento Kings and New Orleans Pelicans have emerged as top suitors, while the Dallas Mavericks have also been linked to a potential deal. The Chicago Bulls and Portland Trail Blazers are reportedly monitoring the situation as well, though their level of interest remains less clear.

From the Warriors’ perspective, the goal in moving Kuminga is not simply to offload salary but to acquire a player who can contribute immediately to their championship aspirations. The organization is seeking a 3-point shooting wing capable of complementing stars Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green on both ends of the floor. This specific player profile has shaped Golden State’s strategy in preliminary trade talks.

To achieve this, the Warriors are reportedly open to packaging Kuminga’s contract with either Moses Moody or Buddy Hield. Such a deal would provide flexibility and value for potential trading partners. However, some high-profile targets may not be attainable; for instance, Nets forward Michael Porter Jr. reportedly does not fit into Brooklyn’s plans, making him unavailable in a potential trade for Kuminga.

Kuminga’s departure would mark a significant roster shift for the Warriors. Despite his immense potential, the team has struggled to maximize his impact alongside their veteran core. By leveraging his contract and skill set, Golden State hopes to address one of the team’s key needs: consistent floor spacing and perimeter shooting.

For teams interested in Kuminga, the appeal is clear. At just 22 years old, he offers a combination of athleticism, defensive versatility, and upside that few wings in the league can match. His ability to contribute immediately, while under contract at a manageable cap figure, makes him an intriguing asset for franchises aiming to improve in the playoff race.

The next four weeks will be critical. As the Warriors evaluate potential trade packages, Kuminga’s eligibility date on January 15 serves as a marker for when discussions can accelerate. Both sides appear committed to finding a resolution that balances Golden State’s competitive ambitions with Kuminga’s career trajectory and financial interests.

If the trade materializes, the Warriors will likely enter the second half of the season with an eye on securing a veteran shooter who can integrate quickly with their system. The overarching objective is to maintain their position as title contenders while recalibrating the roster around a more complementary mix of shooters and defenders.

As the trade deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Warriors’ front office. Whether Sacramento, New Orleans, Dallas, or another franchise ultimately acquires Kuminga, the deal has the potential to reshape the Western Conference playoff landscape. Meanwhile, Golden State remains focused on improving their rotation and ensuring that Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler have the right pieces to chase another championship.

Key Points to Watch:

• Trade Eligibility: Kuminga can be moved starting January 15.

• Contract: $22.5M cap hit in 2025-26; $24.3M team option next season; $1.7M trade bonus if dealt immediately.

• Warriors’ Goal: Acquire a 3-and-D wing capable of blending with Butler and Green.

• Potential Packages: Kuminga + Moses Moody or Buddy Hield.

• Teams Monitoring: Kings, Pelicans, Mavericks, Bulls, Trail Blazers.