Thompson is gone, now the young talents can go. The “warriors” are on the verge of a crucial decision
Artemy Berstenev September 9, 2024, 13:00 Moscow time Audio version: Your browser does not support the audio element.
If Jonathan Kuminga leaves Golden State, who else will help Stephen Curry?
Jonathan Kuminga is a young and daring Golden State player, who is currently only 21 years old. The power forward joined the California team after the 2021 NBA draft, where Golden State selected him seventh overall. A year later, he helped his team win the championship title, defeating Boston 4-2 in the finals. Last season was particularly bright for Kuminga, as he averaged an impressive 16.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. In the coming seasons, the inevitable is predicted for him: the forward will shine even more.
However, fame and success bring not only stormy applause, but also new challenges. In August, Kuminga clearly outlined his ambitious plans for the future of the contract: his target is a maximum amount of $224 million. However, the reality is that Golden State is in no hurry to satisfy his financial appetite. According to insider Brett Siegel, the club is willing to offer him a five-year contract of between $140 and $155 million, an amount much lower than what the young talent is aiming for.
The current situation leaves the Warriors with a difficult decision. On the one hand, the team risks losing a promising player if it doesn’t offer him the desired terms. On the other hand, handing out a max contract after just one successful season is a bold move for any team. Last January, Kuminga’s frustrations reached a peak when he was benched for the final 18 minutes of a game against Denver. By that point, he had already scored 16 points, grabbed four rebounds and dished out four assists in less than 19 minutes of play, and his disappointment was well-founded.
Jonathan Kuminga, 2023/2024 season
Photo: Patrick Smith/Getty Images
After the incident, Kuminga began to appear on the floor more often, but the fact that this required a conflict cannot be considered an ideal situation. Now, if a contractual agreement is not reached before the start of the 2024/2025 season, Kuminga will become a restricted free agent in 2025. This will mean that the Warriors will have to match any offer from other teams to keep him on their roster.
Kuminga has already become an integral part of Golden State’s starting five, bringing much-needed youth and athleticism to the team. His play around the rim is impressive, whether running or rebounding. His ability to finish off the offense with spectacular dunks makes him a constant threat to opponents. On defense, his speed and range greatly enhance the team’s defense. The time to reach an agreement is rapidly running out. It seems that both sides are on the verge of a fateful decision that can radically change the future of both Kuminga himself and the entire team.
How Thompson left Stephen Curry:
The Golden State dynasty is over! Club legend traded Curry for Doncic
