Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors have been at odds this offseason. The matter is not only about a contract, but it goes much deeper. Kuminga wants an identity on a championship-contending roster. One man who can get him that is Warriors veteran star Draymond Green.
Not only does Kuminga want extended minutes, a starting role, but he also does not want to be taken as a “complementary athlete.” He commands respect on a veteran-filled Warriors roster.
According to Blue Man Hoop’s Peter O’Keefe, if Green gives up his starting power forward role in the near future, Kuminga may feel valued and might want to stay back. Of course, that’s a big ask, but nothing that the Warriors haven’t done in the past.
On Dec. 7 last season, Kuminga started over Green in that position. Even the veteran wasn’t opposed to the idea of having Kuminga play ahead of him since the young star has earned his way there.
“So if his (Kuminga’s) opportunity goes through me, then it is what it is. He earned the opportunity. He played extremely well (Thursday),” Green told reporters. “You want to give that another look or two or three or four or however long. If it works, then you continue with it.”
But that experiment was short-lived, with the status quo quickly restored.
What’s at stake for the Warriors with respect to Kuminga?
The negotiations have gone cold with both parties, and there aren’t many suitors who can take on Kuminga and his lofty expectations. Meanwhile, for the Warriors, giving a place to Kuminga in a way he feels valued will be difficult. They traded for Jimmy Butler last season and that goes to show their belief in sticking with the veterans in pursuit of an NBA championship.
The Golden State must decide on whether to maintain its current status quo with the risk of losing a high upside talent or offer Kuminga the position, opportunity, and long-term contract.
