The Golden State Warriors have spent much of the summer tied up in Jonathan Kuminga trade speculation. For weeks, the Sacramento Kings were considered a serious suitor, with Malik Monk floated as the centerpiece in a possible sign-and-trade.
But according to multiple insiders, the deal is not moving forward.
Warriors Still Want More Than Sacramento Will Offer
The Kings’ best offer reportedly included Monk and a protected first-round pick. Golden State, on the other hand, has been holding firm on its asking price. The front office has wanted an unprotected first-rounder for Jonathan Kuminga, a price Sacramento has not been willing to meet.
On Willard & Dibs, Tim Kawakami of The Athletic dismissed the idea of a Kings–Warriors sign-and-trade.
“I don’t think there’s going to be a trade. The Kings thing’s never made sense to me… Kuminga has $48M guaranteed on the table. Does he take it or does he not? Around the league, people are stunned it’s gone this far,” Kawakami said.
Similarly, Dalton Johnson of NBC Sports Bay Area reported that any chances of a sign-and-trade are “virtually over.”
Why the Stalemate Hurts the Warriors
For Golden State, Kuminga’s contract situation is already complicated. If he accepts the qualifying offer, he gains veto power over any trade. If he pushes for a player option in an extension, he becomes harder to move for long-term value.
The Warriors’ preference is a deal with a team option, which would keep flexibility on their side. Without that, any trade partner would face risk, limiting Golden State’s leverage.
The problem is time. The Warriors still need depth pieces around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler before training camp, but Kuminga’s unresolved future is holding up business.
Could Monk Still Help the Warriors?
The irony is that Monk could be exactly the kind of spark the Warriors bench needs. He averaged 17.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.8 rebounds last season. His shot creation and playmaking would give Steve Kerr a weapon when Curry and Butler rest.
Yet Golden State has shown little interest in keeping him. Monk’s four-year, $78 million contract includes a $21.5 million player option for 2027–28, which does not align with the Warriors’ long-term financial flexibility. Reports suggest that even if Golden State acquired him, the front office would likely look to reroute him to a third team.
What’s Next for Golden State?
The Warriors are running out of time. Training camp is approaching, and the roster remains incomplete. If Kuminga stays, the extension details will determine whether he is a long-term piece or just a short-term hold. If he goes, Golden State needs a return that makes them stronger in the West, not more restricted.