The League Leader

“Kuminga prefers the longer-term offers presented by the Kings and Suns because he believes they signify a fresh start, a larger guaranteed role, a promised starting position and a greater level of respect and career control, shown in part through the player option, sources said,” – Anthony Slater and Shams Charania

The Kuminga-Warriors saga has now come to the point where Kuminga is refusing to sign with the Warriors at all. The Warriors have reportedly offered a 2 years, 45 Million Contract but was rejected again due to the team option and Kuminga’s preference for the Kings and Suns.

Sources are saying that the Kings are offering a three-year, $63 million to Kuminga. The Suns are offering a 4 year contract worth up to 90 Million, which is better on paper. Kuminga can only be sign-and-traded if he will leave, so this circumstance, there are now reports on the two teams’ trade offers that show the Kings having an obvious better offer. According to sources,

• Kings offer: Malik Monk and their 2030 first-round pick (lottery protected)
• Suns offer: Royce O’Neale, Nick Richards and four second-round picks

Why Would the Warriors Be In a Better Position and How Does the Kings Benefit?

Veteran guard Malik Monk will be a major upgrade for the Warriors if they accept the deal. He can be a 20 points per game scorer off the bench or starting next to Stephen Curry. On top of that, the 2030 first round pick, although lottery protected, can be a valuable pick in 2030 or 2031 when it becomes unprotected. O’Neale and Richards are also great upgrades, as O’Neale is the must-have 3-and-D type of player every contender wants and Richards is a big upgrade to the Warrior’s lacking interior presence.

Jonathan Kuminga will most likely not have the role he desires if he stays on the Warriors with the offense revolving around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. He can certainly cause bad chemistry in the locker room in order to be traded, which can affect the Warriors’ standings. The Kings will largely benefit because they are most likely not looking to contend next season and are in search of young pieces to build around and prepare for a future playoff run. The Kings can certainly give Kuminga a starting PF role and expect a jump from Kuminga as he gets more opportunities.