The Golden State Warriors may be one of the most decorated franchises of the past decade, but their dynasty clock is ticking. With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green aging, and the 2026 postseason looming as a final window, the pressure is on to make every move count.
This summer, no piece may be more pivotal to that plan than Jonathan Kuminga.
The 22‑year‑old forward is a restricted free agent after receiving a $7.9 million qualifying offer from Golden State. While the Warriors hold matching rights, they’re actively listening to sign‑and‑trade offers. And now, a surprise suitor has emerged in the East.
Wizards Enter Kuminga Sweepstakes
According to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, the Washington Wizards have entered the mix for Kuminga in the last 24 hours.
“The idea of Jonathan Kuminga as a possible fit in Washington’s rebuild has gained real momentum, according to league sources,” Slater wrote.
The Wizards just drafted Tre Johnson at No. 6 and are leaning into a full rebuild. Pairing Kuminga with Bilal Coulibaly would give Washington two dynamic young wings with upside—and one who wants a fresh start.
That said, Washington doesn’t have the cap space to sign Kuminga outright. Any deal would have to be a sign‑and‑trade, and due to CBA rules, Golden State can only take back 50% of Kuminga’s outgoing salary.
What a Potential Warriors Trade Could Look Like
If Kuminga signs a four‑year, $100+ million contract, Washington would need to send out around $12–13 million in matching salary. The most logical fit? Corey Kispert, whose $5.7 million salary fits within the margin. But the Warriors reportedly want more.
Slater reports Golden State is holding out for a “promising young player and a first‑round pick.” That means Washington would likely need to attach one of their future firsts—perhaps the 2029 pick via the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, or Portland Trail Blazers—or even return the Warriors’ own 2030 pick to sweeten the pot
The Warriors rejected a Kings offer of Devin Carter, Dario Šarić, and two second‑rounders, calling it a “buy‑low attempt.”
Multiple Teams Still in the Mix
Washington isn’t alone. Slater also listed the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, and Brooklyn Nets as teams showing “varying levels of interest.”
But Washington stands out. They can offer a starring role and long‑term development—two things Kuminga clearly craves.
Kuminga Wants a Bigger Role
Kuminga had a solid season, averaging 15.3 points and 4.6 rebounds, but his role shrank. He started just 10 games after starting 46 the year prior. Injuries and inconsistency led to frustration.
“I hate the fact that everybody is telling me be ready, get ready,” Kuminga said in April. “I already know that I’m ready. The more you keep telling me to get ready, it becomes kind of irritating.”
Slater added in a separate report last month that Kuminga wants to be “a featured part of the core” on his next team, with “the belief of the franchise and coaching staff behind him.”
That likely won’t happen in Golden State. But it could in Washington.
What’s Next for the Warriors and Kuminga?
GettyGolden State Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.
The Warriors are reportedly planning in‑person meetings with Kuminga and his reps during Summer League in Las Vegas if a deal isn’t done soon. A return to Golden State remains possible—but momentum is building elsewhere.
In a market with few buyers and limited cap‑cleared teams, the Wizards might be willing to bet big on Kuminga’s upside.
And that just might be enough to get a deal done.
