As Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga continues to seek a new deal in restricted free agency, the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls are among the teams around the NBA to watch in potential sign-and-trade discussions, sources tell DallasHoopsJournal.com.
Kuminga, 22, is coming off a career-best season, averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists while shooting 45.4% from the field. A sticking point in negotiations with Golden State is believed to be that Kuminga is seeking an annual salary in the $25 million range.
The Suns created cap flexibility earlier this offseason by stretching the remainder of Bradley Beal’s contract, allowing them to operate below both salary cap aprons — a requirement for any team executing a sign-and-trade under the current CBA. Phoenix has long had an interest in Kuminga and remains active in evaluating options at the forward position.
League sources tell DallasHoopsJournal.com that Golden State is holding firm in its asking price. That stance has made it difficult for Phoenix, which lacks draft capital after a series of aggressive trades in recent seasons.
Meanwhile, the Bulls are viewed as a team Kuminga’s camp would welcome engagement with, but Chicago is currently focused on re-signing restricted free agent Josh Giddey. Until that situation is resolved, the front office has been cautious about committing resources elsewhere.
The Sacramento Kings were previously considered a top suitor for Kuminga, but they have not made recent progress and are no longer considered a leading candidate.
While a return to Golden State remains on the table, including the possibility of a short-term deal, teams around the league continue to monitor Kuminga’s situation.
If the Golden State Warriors become more flexible in trade discussions, the Phoenix Suns and Chicago Bulls could re-emerge as more serious threats to land Jonathan Kuminga.
