The Golden State Warriors and Jonathan Kuminga have been at odds since before the 2025-26 season began. Conflicts between Kuminga and head coach Steve Kerr continued to make headlines, leading fans to doubt the team’s ability to plan effectively.
However, with Kuminga becoming eligible to trade, reports are already drawing up possible moves for the Warriors and Kuminga. Many analysts and insiders, though — including former players — aren’t impressed with Kerr’s and the Warriors’ decisions about Kuminga.
Former NBA All-Star Rips Warriors and HC Steve Kerr Over Jonathan Kuminga Decisions
On Thursday, January 15, ESPN’s Shams Charania and Anthony Slater confirmed that Kuminga has asked the Warriors for a trade. And since he wasn’t eligible before Thursday, there’s a high chance a trade is made before the NBA Trade Deadline on February 5.
And though fans are eager for decisions on Kuminga’s future, most are upset that the younger player has missed the past 13 games. Kerr ended up taking Kuminga out of rotation, also citing a few injuries.
Former NBA All-Star Isaiah Thomas called out the Warriors about Kuminga’s situation, urging the team to make a decision soon.
“He should!!! Warriors holding him hostage smh. Let the kid develop,” Thomas wrote.
He should!!! Warrios holding him hostage smh. Let the kid develop https://t.co/xIFGGAofbS
— Isaiah Thomas (@isaiahthomas) January 15, 2026
Having said that, ESPN added that most people on the team are reportedly inclined towards trading Kuminga over letting him sit on the bench. Of course, Kuminga’s $22.5 million contract also poses a problem for the Warriors and will free up significant cap space.
Of course, the trade decision comes after months of negotiations and speculation. Eventually, the team and Kuminga signed a two-year, $46.8 million contract — reports hinting at the former 2021 draft pick’s unhappiness over the deal.
“That structure, which Kuminga told those around him he felt forced into signing, further soured his relationship with management, league sources said, but was done to deliver the Warriors a tradeable contract at the deadline,” ESPN wrote.
Lakers Can Be a Possible Choice For Kuminga
With the trade deadline nearing, the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as a possible destination for Kuminga.
And according to a report by Marcus Thompson II, Sam Amick, and Nick Friedell, the team has already shown interest in the Warriors forward.
“League and team sources confirmed a report that the Lakers have some interest in Kuminga, though it remains unclear if talks will unfold. The Warriors, the sources said, are aware of the intrigue and waiting to see how that situation evolves,” the report said.
And with Kuminga looking for a fresh start, the Lakers might be a great place for him to end his season.
