Jonathan Kuminga’s time with the Golden State Warriors seems to be running short.
In less than two weeks, the Warriors no longer have a restriction on a Kuminga-centric trade. Despite signing Kuminga to a two-year deal over the summer, the Warriors are expected to close the book on this chapter before that contract expires in Golden State.
As Kuminga waits for answers on his future, he isn’t able to do much for his value. The Warriors are currently rolling with him outside of the rotation, with no plans to utilize him.
For the Golden State star, Jimmy Butler, that hasn’t changed anything about the dynamic on the team.
“That’s my brother. I couldn't care less if he’s out of the rotation,” Butler told reporters late last week.
“We hang out—that’s my friend—that’s my brother. That’s not going to change. Basketball is basketball, but I love him like a brother and I wish him the best. I still see him in here getting his work in, so his mind is right.”
Jimmy Butler on Jonathan Kuminga: “His future, that’s between him and whoever else. That bond we’ve built…no future (decision) will change that.”
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 4, 2026
What he’s told him: “You be the pro of pros. Come here and get your work done. Smile.” Pic.twitter.com/9NpLrd6DoP
There is a possibility that Kuminga and Butler aren’t teammates before the February trade deadline. While the chances of that scenario happening are growing rapidly, Butler makes it clear that nothing will change as far as his relationship goes with the former top-7 pick.
“I’m still going to call in and check on him. I’m still going to go visit him, go to his house, play with his kids. His future—that’s between him and whoever else. The bond and brotherhood that we’ve built, no future is going to change, that’s my guy,” Butler added.
Kuminga has played his first four full seasons with the Warriors, seeing the court for over 250 games. Throughout his career, he averaged 12.5 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, while shooting 50 percent from the field.
During his first season in the NBA, Kuminga gained playoff experience and won an NBA championship with the Warriors.
This year, Kuminga has 18 appearances, including 13 starts. He has produced 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists, knocking down 43 percent of his shots.
Monday’s action against the Los Angeles Clippers marked the ninth game in a row that Kuminga didn’t play. He dressed for all but one of those matchups. The Warriors are clearly trending towards navigating life without their former first-rounder, but Butler’s message makes it clear that he’s still very much a part of the team.
“I tell JK, you be a pro of all pros, come here and get your work done. You smile, have a good time, because you’re still an NBA player, and you’re one of the best people in the world,” he finished. “I’m not even talking about basketball. Keep smiling, and keep being the great human being that you are.”