Jonathan Cuminga is a free agent restricted this offseason. Draymond Green spoke about his situation with the Warriors and dropped hints on what will happen in the future.
Once the Golden State Warriors season is over and the dust settles, the franchise must think about its offseason moves. Perhaps the biggest question mark on the roster is Jonathan Cuminga.
As the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, expectations for Cuminga were very high. But he couldn’t grow because he thought people were in San Francisco.
The 22-year-old averaged 15.3 points per game during the regular season, but started just 10 games. He didn’t make a significant playoff minutes until Stephen Curry was injured.
Steve Kerr ultimately expressed his strong belief in Kuminga, and even legends like Dwyane Wade showed their support. Despite his great recent play, his future with the franchise is far from a decision.
After Curry collapsed in the Timberwolves series, Kuminga took on a major offensive role. He averaged 20.8 points per game, shooting more than 54% off the field and more than 42% off the 3-point range.
These numbers may usually be enough to make players feel safe in the franchise in the future. However, Draymond Green’s answer to the young people’s contract status suggested that this was not the case.
“Obviously, the JK has a contract status,” Green said.
“I always hope he’s the best with it. You’re in that situation. Whether it’s here or elsewhere, you want him to be the best.”
Previous dpoy words suggest that cuminga can move very well elsewhere. He was a limited free agent this offseason and his talent allowed him to score some big offers from other teams in the league.
The young Warriors star reportedly declined a five-year $150 million extension from Golden State earlier this season. After the years he spent as a non-starter, he rarely gets a big deal.
However, this does not mean that Cuminga has no choice. He could receive offers in the $20 million to $25 million range, but Golden State could be priced accordingly.
Brooklyn’s net has long been linked to interest, and this summer there will be an important cap space. A big offer from them could result in the warrior choosing not to match it.
There is a possibility of sign-and-trade, but with the new cap rules it is unlikely. In an ideal world, the Warriors and Kuminga understand what it is. We can still see what happens.