As the Golden State Warriors try to squeeze out one more playoff run in the Steph Curry era, there’s a storm brewing in the background. Jonathan Kuminga’s future with the franchise is now one of the NBA’s hottest storylines. From early-season breakout to a surprise benching, the 22-year-old forward continues to be linked to the Brooklyn Nets and is on uncertain footing in the Bay.
Explosive Talent, Quiet Fade
Earlier this season, Jonathan Kuminga appeared to be developing into an important piece of the Warriors’ future. He didn’t just show flashes this season—he took real steps forward. Before an ankle injury sidelined him for nearly two months, he averaged 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting over 45% from the field and 35% from beyond the arc.
But things changed fast.
After returning from injury, Kuminga had trouble regaining rhythm, and the midseason arrival of Jimmy Butler further complicated the rotation. Over his final 15 games, Kuminga’s averages plummeted to 12.2 points and just 20.8 minutes per game.
Head coach Steve Kerr pulled Kuminga from the lineup entirely, giving him a DNP-CD (Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision) in the regular season finale against the Clippers, a game with playoff implications.
Kerr didn’t sugarcoat it either. He said the team had found a groove, and integrating Kuminga didn’t fit their new timetable. That may be true, but the decision raised eyebrows around the league.
Brooklyn Comes Calling
Multiple reports have linked Kuminga to the Brooklyn Nets, who are rumored to be exploring a potential offer when Kuminga hits restricted free agency this summer. According to NBA insiders Mark Stein and Jake Fischer, the Nets are prepared to make a strong push.
The duo states that Brooklyn has “long loomed as a potential suitor,” since Kuminga and the Warriors couldn’t agree on a contract extension before the October deadline. For a franchise looking to retool around young talent, Kuminga fits the mold as a talented and athletic wing.
Nets Reporter Jed Katz believes the Nets “could allow Kuminga to shine in a lead role alongside star guard Cam Thomas,” and “Kuminga’s production in a limited role has showcased his star potential.”
What Comes Next?
The Warriors are at a crossroads. Kuminga’s upside is obvious, but he wants a real role, not a seat at the end of the bench behind veterans chasing a ring. Golden State could try to match an offer sheet from Brooklyn, but it won’t be easy with luxury tax concerns and multiple big contracts already on the books.
A sign-and-trade could be a more likely outcome, allowing the Warriors to get something in return while Kuminga gets the fresh start he may need.
And for Kuminga? A move to Brooklyn could be the best thing for his career. More minutes. More responsibility. A chance to become a foundational piece instead of a rotational question mark.
Jonathan Kuminga’s situation is one of the more intriguing subplots of the NBA offseason. He’s shown too much promise to be buried on the bench, and teams like the Nets are ready to pounce. Whether the Warriors let him walk, match a big offer, or orchestrate a trade, change seems to be coming—and it could be the start of Kuminga 2.0.
