UPDATE: The Golden State Warriors face a critical moment as negotiations with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga heat up just hours before their first practice on September 26, 2023. Veteran stars Draymond Green, Stephen Curry, and Jimmy Butler expressed their confidence that the ongoing contract talks will not derail their championship aspirations.
Kuminga remains unsigned, leaving the Warriors without three crucial players, including veteran free agent additions Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton, whose contracts are contingent on Kuminga’s outcome. “We respect the [negotiation] process,” Curry stated. “When he’s here, ready to work, we expect him to be locked in on doing what he needs to do to help us win.”
Currently, Kuminga has turned down the Warriors’ two-year, $45 million offer and a three-year, $75.2 million deal, citing the team option in the final year as a sticking point. He is reportedly seeking a more favorable contract or a potential sign-and-trade opportunity elsewhere, despite the Warriors signaling they are not looking to increase their offers.
As the clock ticks down to a crucial deadline, Kuminga’s one-year, $8 million qualifying offer expires on September 27 at 11:59 p.m. ET. If he accepts this offer, he risks forfeiting an additional $15.3 million next season but would gain a no-trade clause and unrestricted free agency in 2026, creating tensions within the organization.
Green highlighted the challenges of contract negotiations: “It’s one side trying to get the better of the other side, and when you’re trying to do that, just like in a basketball game, tempers flare.” He remains hopeful about Kuminga’s commitment to the team, saying, “I do think he still wants to be here.”
Despite the uncertainty, the Warriors are preparing for their first practice with only 11 roster players available. Green acknowledged the difficulties this poses, stating, “We’ll be tired as hell going through practice… But as far as it being a distraction, I don’t expect this to go on too much longer.”
Curry has been in direct contact with Kuminga throughout this process, assuring fans that the young star is committed: “I just know from man-to-man, he doesn’t want to be in the way of anything.”
As media day continues, the Warriors emphasize unity and focus on their shared goal of winning a championship. “A contract negotiation is a contract negotiation for a reason,” Green added, indicating a belief that resolution is imminent.
With the season looming, fans and analysts alike are left wondering how these negotiations will unfold and what it means for the Warriors’ chances this year. As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on Kuminga and the franchise’s next moves. The urgency is palpable, and the stakes are high. Will a resolution come before the season starts, or will this saga continue to unfold into the season?
