The situation with Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors is shaping up to be a complex negotiation. Kuminga, after showing significant improvement in the 2023-24 season, is eligible for a rookie extension but may not receive the max deal he and his camp desire.
While Kuminga posted career highs with 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, the Warriors seem hesitant to offer him a max rookie extension worth $225 million, which is in line with what players like Scottie Barnes and Franz Wagner from his draft class received. Instead, they are reportedly looking to offer a five-year deal in the range of $140-$155 million.
Kuminga’s desire for a max extension stems from his increased role and production last season, but his overall career has had some frustrations, especially with inconsistent playing time during his first two years. This tension reached a peak when he was benched in a game against the Denver Nuggets in early 2024 despite a strong performance, leading to a public report of dissatisfaction with head coach Steve Kerr.
While the Warriors value Kuminga’s potential, they may not yet view him as a max-level player after just one standout season. However, by offering a deal well below the max, they risk alienating Kuminga, who may feel he deserves more. This could lead to future tension, especially if he doesn’t get the extension he’s seeking before the start of the 2024-25 season. If no agreement is reached, Kuminga would enter restricted free agency in 2025, forcing the Warriors to match any offer if they wish to retain him.
The challenge for the Warriors is balancing the risk of losing a young, promising player like Kuminga while managing their salary cap and avoiding overpaying based on limited high-level production. Kuminga and his representatives are reportedly pushing for the max, and while the Warriors may offer a substantial deal, it seems unlikely to reach the $225 million mark he’s aiming for unless he continues to prove his value in the upcoming season.
