The NBA free agency frenzy has fizzled to a near standstill, with most marquee names already inked to new deals. Yet, the restricted free agent (RFA) market remains eerily quiet, a barren landscape where only three RFAs have secured contracts above the league minimum, and just two have crossed the $10M threshold. Amid this drought, one name continues to spark intrigue: Jonathan Kuminga, the Golden State Warriors’ rising star, whose future hangs in the balance as trade rumors swirl—most notably with the Sacramento Kings.
Kuminga, a dynamic forward and a cornerstone of Golden State’s next era, has been the subject of relentless speculation. Over recent months, whispers of a potential move to Sacramento have grown louder, fueled by a reported meeting between Kuminga and Kings executives Scott Perry and Doug Christie. The rumors have taken on various shapes, including a possible sign-and-trade, but a deal remains elusive. On the Warriors Plus Minus podcast, NBA insider Sam Amick dropped a bombshell: the Warriors have outright dismissed two Kings players—six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan and promising guard Devin Carter—in potential trade talks for Kuminga. Even more surprising? Sacramento’s reluctance to offer Kuminga a contract exceeding $20M annually, a stance that aligns with a market that has yet to value him above that mark.
Kings-related details on a potential Kuminga trade, from @sam_amick:
“My understanding is the Warriors weren’t interested in Carter or DeRozan. As of a couple weeks ago, the Kings weren’t willing to pay Kuminga into the $20 million range (AAV).”
(via Warriors Plus Minus)
— Evan Giddings (@evanAgiddings) July 29, 2025
The Warriors’ lack of interest in DeRozan, who turns 36 next week, is hardly shocking upon closer inspection. While the veteran scorer’s high basketball IQ and playmaking could, in theory, mesh with Golden State’s system, his addition would exacerbate an already glaring issue: spacing. Pairing DeRozan, a non-shooter, with Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler would clog the floor, undermining the Warriors’ free-flowing offense. Moreover, swapping Kuminga—a 23-year-old with All-Star potential—for a 36-year-old star runs counter to Golden State’s long-term vision. Ownership has made it clear: they’re not doubling down on an aging core at the expense of their future.
The Warriors’ dismissal of Devin Carter, however, raises eyebrows. Selected as a lottery pick in 2024, Carter was hailed as a potential draft steal, drawing comparisons to Jrue Holiday and Derrick White for his defensive tenacity and connective playmaking. Despite a shoulder injury that limited him to just 11 minutes per game across 36 appearances in his rookie season, Carter’s potential remains tantalizing. His Summer League performance was a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance tempered by struggles running the point. Yet, his defensive instincts and versatility shone through, hinting at a player who could thrive alongside Golden State’s stars.
Carter’s jumper remains a work in progress, but his raw tools make him an intriguing bet—precisely the type of young, high-upside player the Warriors reportedly covet in any Kuminga deal. Sacramento’s previous offer, which included Carter, veteran Dario Saric, and second-round picks, might represent the best package Golden State will see. Passing on Carter could prove to be a gamble, especially as the Warriors seek a quality young player and a first-round pick to justify parting with Kuminga.
Yeah he’s not trading this guy lol pic.twitter.com/TBKou1iMO6
— Niko (@nikotaughtyou) May 17, 2025
On the Kings’ side, their unwillingness to offer Kuminga a contract north of $20M annually is a calculated move. The Warriors have reportedly tabled a $20M offer, but Kuminga’s camp is holding firm for a deal closer to $30M per year. With no other team stepping up to meet that price, Sacramento has little incentive to bid against themselves. The market, it seems, has spoken—and $20M appears to be Kuminga’s ceiling for now.
Complicating matters is the NBA’s base year compensation rule, which could limit Sacramento’s ability to match salaries in a sign-and-trade, especially with their First Apron hard cap looming. The Kings also face critical decisions elsewhere, with extensions for Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis reportedly in the works. Balancing these priorities while pursuing Kuminga is a high-wire act, but Sacramento remains engaged, carefully calibrating their roster for a playoff push.
As the saga drags on, the stakes grow higher. Will Kuminga land in Sacramento, or will the Warriors hold firm, banking on his development to anchor their post-Curry era? For now, the Kings appear content to play the waiting game, confident that their offer reflects Kuminga’s current market value. Meanwhile, Golden State’s rejection of DeRozan and Carter sends a clear message: they’re not settling for anything less than a transformative return.
The NBA world watches with bated breath, waiting for the next move in this high-stakes standoff. One thing is certain: the resolution of the Kuminga saga will send shockwaves through the league, reshaping the futures of two Western Conference contenders.