Golden State Warriors risk it all as Jonathan Kuminga halts offseason with bold $45 million contract standoff

The Golden State Warriors are stuck in a difficult position this offseason. While other NBA teams are making moves, the Warriors remain silent. Their biggest challenge is not on the court but in negotiations.

The team’s talks with forward Jonathan Kuminga have reached a standstill. This uncertainty has left their roster plans hanging in balance.

Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors reach a tense stage in 2025 talks

In August 2025, the Golden State Warriors offered Jonathan Kuminga a two-year $45 million contract. The deal included a team option for the second year. The main issue is that the Warriors also want Kuminga to waive his no-trade clause. ESPN says Kuminga and his representatives are not prepared to negotiate that aspect of the arrangement.

As a lottery selection, Jonathan Kuminga, 22, joined the Warriors in 2021. He has turned out to be among the most explosive forwards league-wide. His demand for more control over his career, though, has created a friction with the Warriors. He has a $8 million qualifying option now. Kuminga can refuse the extension and become an unrestricted free agent in 2026 if he chooses to.Interest from rival teams has made the matter even more complex.

The Phoenix Suns reportedly offered Kuminga a $90 million deal earlier this summer. The Sacramento Kings also tried to bring him in, but the Warriors were not satisfied with the offers. Despite these talks, no trade has been agreed on so far.

NBA stars wait as Golden State Warriors face Jonathan Kuminga contract pressure

While the Jonathan Kuminga situation remains unresolved, other stars are waiting for their chance to sign with the Warriors. Veterans Gary Payton II and Al Horford are among them.

Payton has already shown interest in re-signing, but other teams could pursue him if Golden State does not act. Horford, 38, may even retire if a deal is not completed soon.Other Warriors players who have been linked with them include Seth Curry, Malcolm Brogdon, De'Anthony Melton, and Cody Martin. Alongside Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler, these players might help the team. None of these signings, however, can advance until the Warriors determine how to deal with Kuminga.Insiders told The Athletic that before the 2025 trade deadline, Golden State is set to make a big move. One possible fix would be a sign-and-trade including Kuminga. That would let the squad be nimble and attract more talent without running the risk of losing him for nothing.Also Read: 'I’m thrilled' - Magic Johnson celebrates Terry McLaurin signing $96 million Washington Commanders dealPresently, the Warriors' fate rests on their management of their 22-year-old forward. Every week that passes emphasizes that the key to their offseason and to preserving their championship window is solving the Kuminga problem.