Jonathan Kuminga is expected to take another leap this season after posting career numbers last year. He upped his scoring average by over six points in 2023-24 and could see a similar bump this year without Klay Thompson.
The Warriors’ fourth-year player could become a borderline all-star player and score in the 20-point range now entering his age-22 season. Golden State needs him to do so to be successful, and if he does, he could be rewarded with a massive contract extension.
Despite being talked about all offseason as a deal that could potentially be done before the year, the two sides are waiting for the situation to play itself out before committing long term. It is a gamble, but one both sides are willing to make.
“Jonathan Kuminga is a player that the Warriors believe can emerge as that superstar player. You look at what he did last season, 19 points per game, 55 percent shooting, 38 percent from three after January, but I am told both sides are still far apart in extension conversations,” said ESPN insider Shams Charania.
Just because they are far apart does not mean a deal will get done; rather, they will wait to know what the right number will be.
“I think there is a real belief that this could play out into the season and into restricted free agency, and really, there is a guy in Jonathan Kuminga who wants to bet on himself and try to be as close to a max contract type of player. The Warriors need him to step up and become that superstar player, and they also want to see how he looks this season,” said Charania.
If Kuminga becomes a bonafide second option in this Golden State offense, it is safe to say his price tag will increase, and he could see close to that max extension he is looking for. If that is the case, the Warriors might not have any option but to give him what he wants.
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