Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors haven’t been aligned since the offseason. After declining the team’s $7.9 million qualifying offer, the forward eventually agreed to a two-year, $46.8 million deal right before the 2025-26 season, ending a long standoff. The contract includes a team option for 2026-27, but despite the resolution, Kuminga’s role and long-term fit in Golden State remain unclear.
Jimmy Butler Experienced a Similar Feeling to Jonathan Kuminga
Last season, Jimmy Butler controversially exited the Miami Heat. Butler and Miami’s front office did not have a great relationship, and he felt the franchise was not prioritizing him or building toward competing for a championship. After multiple team suspensions and Butler wanting to “find his joy” on the basketball court, the Miami Heat traded him to the Golden State Warriors.
The Golden State star believes he sees some of himself in Kuminga’s difficult situation. “Can you just imagine being in a place where — like, I get it — are you wanted here or not? That’s the worst feeling, man … I had to deal with it at the later part [of my tenure] in Miami,” expressed Butler.
Jimmy Butler says he understands what Jonathan Kuminga is going through by not feeling wanted
“Can you just imagine being in a place where — like, I get it — are you wanted here or not?That’s the worst feeling, man. Can you imagine it? I had to deal with it at the later part… pic.twitter.com/cbENS9xvRh
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) November 20, 2025
According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the Warriors cannot trade Kuminga until Jan. 15. A trade seems destined based on his and the franchise’s relationship, but it cannot happen for at least a couple of months. Kuminga leans on Butler’s experience in this situation.
“I feel like, in this league, he’s one of the people that actually [has] been in my shoes throughout their career. And knows what I’ve been going through,” said Kuminga.
Butler supported Kuminga throughout the offseason, saying he should do what is best for him during contract negotiations. Kuminga signed with the team two days into training camp and won the starting power forward spot on opening night.
Kuminga’s Role Changes Once Again
The Warriors got off to a fast start, winning four of their first five games. Kuminga averaged 16.2 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 3.4 assists over that stretch, and head coach Steve Kerr liked what he saw from the fifth-year pro. “I think he’s ready … The way he’s rebounding, the way he’s attacking the rim, that’s what makes him special,” said Kerr.
However, Golden State hit a roadblock after its hot start. It went 2-5 in their next seven games and sits on a 9-8 record, good for eighth in the Western Conference. Kerr searched for a consistent starting lineup around Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Butler.
One move included moving Kuminga back to the bench against the San Antonio Spurs on November 12. He played just 12 minutes, scoring 0 points and grabbing 4 rebounds. One team source said Kuminga felt “like the scapegoat again” regarding his benching.
The seventh pick in the 2021 NBA Draft has not played in the four games since due to bilateral knee tendonitis. It will be interesting to see what Kuminga’s role looks like when he returns.
