Look, the vibes at Chase Center aren't exactly "Strength in Numbers" right now. Honestly, it’s closer to "Strength in Stress." If you’ve been following the NBA rumors Golden State has been generating lately, you know the Jan. 15 trade eligibility date was circled in red on everyone’s calendar. Well, that date came and went, and it didn't just bring gossip—it brought a formal trade demand from Jonathan Kuminga.
The 23-year-old forward didn't even wait for the ink to dry on his eligibility window before making it clear he wants out. It's a mess. Steve Kerr is calling it a "difficult situation" where "nobody's winning." When your head coach starts talking like a guy who just watched his dog run away, you know the internal clock is ticking toward the Feb. 5 trade deadline.
Why the Kuminga Situation Is So Messy
Kuminga is currently playing under a two-year, $46.8 million deal that was essentially built to be traded. The Warriors front office, led by Mike Dunleavy, gave him a $24.3 million team option for next year. That's a "move me" contract if I've ever seen one. But the problem isn't just the money; it's the role. Kuminga has been rotting on the bench during garbage time, and Kerr’s explanation was basically a giant shrug.
Draymond Green, surprisingly, has been the voice of reason here. He’s been praising Kuminga's professionalism, even mentioning how the kid helped Brandin Podziemski through a rough patch while his own future was in limbo. But professionalism doesn't win games when you're 8th in the West and struggling to stay above .500. The reality is that the Warriors are trying to balance a $54 million Jimmy Butler paycheck with the aging legs of Stephen Curry, and Kuminga has become the odd man out in the rotation.
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The Targets: Who Is Golden State Actually Chasing?
If you're looking for the big names in the NBA rumors Golden State circle, the list is getting specific. They aren't just looking for "help"—they need wings who can actually shoot and defend without needing 20 touches a game.
- Trey Murphy III: The Warriors have reportedly been sniffing around New Orleans, but the Pelicans are treating Murphy like a protected heirloom. They’ve rebuffed inquiries so far.
- Michael Porter Jr. (MPJ): This is the high-risk, high-reward play. Rumors suggest the Warriors might offer a package involving Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Buddy Hield to get Porter out of Brooklyn. It’s a lot of shooting to give up, but MPJ’s size is something the Dubs desperately lack.
- Herbert Jones: Another Pelicans wing. He’s the "dream" fit for a Kerr system, but again, the price is astronomical.
- The "Plan B" Group: If the big fish don't bite, expect names like Naji Marshall, Ayo Dosunmu, or even Daniel Gafford to pop up. These are the "solidify the rotation" moves rather than "save the season" moves.
There's also that wild LaMelo Ball three-team trade theory floating around. The idea of LaMelo running the second unit while Curry rests sounds amazing on paper. It would cost Kuminga, Moody, Podziemski, and a 2026 first-rounder. Is it likely? Probably not. But it shows just how desperate the team is to find offense when Steph sits. Right now, the Warriors score a measly 106.4 points per 100 possessions when Curry is off the floor. That’s basement-dweller territory.
The Jimmy Butler Factor and the Salary Cap
We have to talk about Jimmy. The Warriors traded for him back in February 2025, and while he brought that "Heat Culture" grit, it hasn't translated into a dominant standings jump. He’s making $54 million this year and $56.8 million next year. When you pair that with Steph’s $59.6 million, you’re basically looking at a cap sheet that is on fire.
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The Warriors are currently hovering right around the second apron. This means they can't just take back more money than they send out in a trade. This is why the Sacramento Kings talks stalled. The Kings wanted to send Malik Monk, but his three-year, $60.4 million contract is a non-starter for Golden State. They want expiring deals or low-risk assets. They’re guarding their 2028 and 2030 first-round picks like they're the last water bottles in a desert.
Is the Curry Era Actually Ending?
Steph is 37. He’s still averaging over 28 points a game and shooting nearly 39% from deep. He's not the problem. But even he and Draymond have gone on record lately saying the team doesn't seem "committed to winning." That’s a stinging indictment.
Curry is under contract through 2027, and he’s been open about wanting to retire a Warrior. He’s even mentioned Michael Jordan as a role model for post-career ownership. But he wants a fifth ring first. The window isn't just closing; it's practically latched shut. If the front office doesn't move Kuminga for a piece that actually helps now, they are essentially telling Steph they’re okay with a first-round exit.
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What to Watch for Before the Deadline
- The Sacramento Pivot: If the Kings include Keon Ellis and find a way to make the Monk money work (maybe a third team?), this is the most logical landing spot for Kuminga.
- The Brooklyn Gamble: If the Nets decide to truly bottom out, Michael Porter Jr. becomes the primary target.
- The 2026 First-Rounder: Golden State is surprisingly willing to part with their 2026 pick. If a deal happens, expect that pick to be the sweetener.
Basically, the next three weeks are going to define the next three years of this franchise. You can't keep a disgruntled 23-year-old on the bench while your 37-year-old superstar is carrying the entire offense. Something has to give. Whether it's a blockbuster for a wing or a smaller move for a big man like Bobby Portis, the Warriors cannot afford to stand still.
Actionable Insights for Warriors Fans:
Keep an eye on the "DNP-CD" (Did Not Play - Coach's Decision) counts for Kuminga and Moody over the next five games. If their minutes vanish entirely, a trade is imminent. Also, watch the point spread in games where Steph plays fewer than 32 minutes. If the bench continues to bleed points, Dunleavy will be forced to overpay for a backup playmaker like LaMelo or Dosunmu. The February 5 deadline is the hard ceiling for this roster's current form.