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 dallassportsjournal.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 dallassportsjournal.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.
