NBA Insider tips two lottery teams to make a move for Jonathan Kuminga

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Golden State’s stalled season and Kuminga’s inconsistent role may push the forward onto the market.

Jonathan Kuminga is shaping up to be one of the notable names to watch ahead of the NBA Trade Deadline. The Golden State Warriors resolved a months-long contract standoff by signing him to a two-year, $48.5 million extension before the season, but they have struggled to carve out a steady role for him — especially with his current absence due to bilateral patellar tendinitis.

Because of his new deal, Kuminga cannot be traded until after January 15, but league insiders expect interest to build once that restriction lifts. And with Golden State stuck at 10–10 amid a turbulent start, the franchise may be forced into roster upgrades that require moving one of its most intriguing young players.

Two underperforming teams could step forward as trade suitors

According to ClutchPoints reporter Brett Siegel, two lottery-bound teams — the Indiana Pacers and the New Orleans Pelicans — could explore deals for Kuminga once he becomes trade-eligible. Both franchises have pieces that fit Golden State’s desire for a versatile, defensive-minded wing, something they have lacked consistently this season.

Siegel notes that Herb Jones and Trey Murphy III are players the Warriors admire, viewing them as ideal additions for a “win-now” push. With Golden State eager to add a 3-and-D presence to its starting lineup, talks with both the Pacers and Pelicans are expected to surface as the deadline approaches.

Will the Warriors ultimately trade Kuminga?

Golden State’s first priority is to get healthy and navigate the toughest stretch of their schedule. Once they emerge from that, the front office is expected to conduct a full evaluation of its roster needs — and that will almost certainly include gauging the market for Kuminga.

The 22-year-old forward still carries substantial upside, making him one of the Warriors’ most valuable trade chips. If the right package becomes available, especially one that helps Stephen Curry’s timeline, a deal involving Kuminga appears increasingly plausible as the 2025 deadline draws closer.