The Golden State Warriors are looking to make moves ahead of the NBA trade deadline, and one name expected to be dealt is young gun Jonathan Kuminga. The Warriors haven’t been playing him much, leading to frustration on his end, so once he became eligible, he requested a trade.
“On the first day he became eligible to be moved, fifth-year forward Jonathan Kuminga demanded a trade away from the Golden State Warriors, league sources told ESPN. Kuminga could not be traded until Thursday, according to the terms of the contract he signed this summer,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.
One team reportedly interested in Kuminga is the Los Angeles Lakers, who are exploring potential deals to surround Luka Doncic with the right pieces.
“The Lakers have legitimate interest in trading for Jonathan Kuminga. With the Kings now unwilling to part with a future protected first-round pick, Los Angeles could swoop in and make an enticing offer to the Warriors,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.
However, the Warriors are expected to demand significant value in return. A prime trade target for them is New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III.
“The Warriors continue to covet Trey Murphy III as their dream trade deadline target. Even after Jimmy Butler’s torn ACL, Golden State would love to add Murphy into their core. Golden State can offer the Pelicans Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski and multiple 1st-round picks,” Sidery wrote.
This deal would benefit the Warriors tremendously. It would also give Kuminga and Podziemski a fresh start elsewhere. The Warriors are in need of a player like Jimmy Butler, and Murphy could provide that spark.
Golden State remains in a strong position for the postseason, but the key will be how the team meshes during this transitional period. There is no doubt that adding Murphy would be a significant boost.