A Clear Intent: Bring Back Kuminga
Golden State Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. sent a direct message on Friday: Jonathan Kuminga is a priority.
“We value JK… It’s very reasonable and actionable,” Dunleavy said.
Kuminga, 22, is heading into restricted free agency after a season of highs, a significant ankle injury, and late flashes of playoff brilliance. Golden State retains the right to match any offer — and Dunleavy made it clear that a return is the preferred outcome.
However, he acknowledged the complexity of the process.
“It’s a two-way street,” he added. “It depends on the conversations, the contract talks — we’ll see where it goes.”
Kerr Reflects on Kuminga’s Role Shift
Head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that reintegrating Kuminga post-injury was difficult. After Jimmy Butler’s arrival changed the team’s momentum in February, Golden State surged — going 23-8 — while Kuminga remained sidelined.
“When he returned, he wasn’t in rhythm,” Kerr said. “The fit wasn’t right at the time, and we didn’t have the runway to make it work.”
Kerr emphasized that if Kuminga returns, he’ll get time alongside Butler, Steph Curry, and Draymond Green early in the new season — something the staff didn’t have space to experiment with during the playoff chase.
“That would be a no-brainer,” Kerr stated.
Kuminga’s Interrupted Breakout
Kuminga’s averages — 15.3 points across 47 games — only tell part of the story. His December run featured back-to-back 34-point games before the injury setback. In the playoffs, he briefly stepped up in Curry’s absence, averaging 24.2 points during a key stretch against Minnesota.
Still, his postseason role was inconsistent, capped by a benching in the regular season finale and limited minutes during the semifinals.
“He’s still raw, but the talent is there,” Kerr said. “We’ve got to improve our roster and figure out the right mix.”
All Eyes on the 2026 Title Window
Golden State is betting big that its core — Curry, Butler, and Green — can still compete for a championship. But the margins are tight, and the next few months could define the direction of the franchise.
“A week ago, we were up 1-0 in the conference semis. I still believe we’re right there,” Kerr said.
Dunleavy signaled that the Warriors are open to bold moves, including trading picks or young players, if it means staying in the title hunt.
“We’re good giving up whatever it takes — if we believe it truly makes us better,” Dunleavy said.
Kuminga at the Crossroads
Jonathan Kuminga stands at the center of the Warriors’ most pivotal offseason since their dynasty began. A long-term piece with All-Star potential — and a short-term question mark in a crowded rotation.
Golden State sees the upside. Now they’ll find out if it aligns with their urgency.
