As the NBA offseason heats up, the spotlight has turned to the “Big Four” restricted free agents: Chicago’s Josh Giddey, Brooklyn’s Cam Thomas, Philadelphia’s Quentin Grimes, and Golden State’s Jonathan Kuminga. These young stars are at the center of intense contract negotiations, with their respective teams wrestling over the value of their next deals. Among them, Kuminga’s situation with the Golden State Warriors has sparked the most intrigue, as his uncertain future is reportedly holding back the team’s ability to bolster their roster depth. Could the Warriors be ready to part ways with the talented 22-year-old forward? NBA Champion Kendrick Perkins has dropped a bombshell theory that suggests the answer lies in a surprising rift within the organization.
REPORT: The Sacramento Kings trade offer for Jonathan Kuminga included Malik Monk & a 2030 lottery protected 1st round pick, per @sam_amick. pic.twitter.com/9gDONO1hEJ
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) August 1, 2025
Jonathan Kuminga’s time with Golden State has been nothing short of a wild ride. The 22-year-old forward showed flashes of brilliance last season, stepping into the starting lineup to replace Draymond Green at times and displaying the athleticism and scoring ability that made him a top draft pick. However, his role was far from consistent. Shockingly, Kuminga went from starter to receiving DNP (Did Not Play) designations during the postseason, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Now, with his contract negotiations looming, Kuminga’s name has surfaced in trade rumors, with teams like the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings reportedly exploring sign-and-trade possibilities. While opinions vary on whether Kuminga can become a cornerstone star or a high-impact role player, one thing is clear: his full potential may not be realized in Golden State. But why? According to Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA Champion and current analyst, the answer lies in a clash of visions within the Warriors’ front office and coaching staff.
On a recent episode of the Road Trippin’ podcast, Perkins didn’t hold back when discussing Kuminga’s situation. “Steve Kerr never embraced Jonathan Kuminga, right? Bob Myers drafted Jonathan Kuminga,” Perkins stated bluntly, pointing to a disconnect between the Warriors’ head coach and the young forward. Perkins suggested that Kuminga, selected under former GM Bob Myers, doesn’t fit the vision of the current regime led by GM Mike Dunleavy and Kerr.
Perkins doubled down, contrasting Kuminga’s treatment with that of Brandin Podziemski, a guard drafted in 2023 under Dunleavy’s watch. “Brandin Podziemski has gotten more of an opportunity since he was drafted under the new regime,” Perkins noted. Podziemski, who emerged as a standout role player last season, averaged an impressive 15.5 points and 5.9 rebounds on 43.8% three-point shooting after the All-Star break. This stark difference in opportunity has fueled speculation that Kuminga’s draft pedigree under Myers could be working against him.
Jonathan Kuminga “wants to go” to Sacramento, Marc Spears says 👀
“The Kings are offering a starting spot. He’s talked on a zoom call with Scott Perry, BJ Armstrong and also with Doug Christie. He’s in. He wants to go there.” pic.twitter.com/91ZaUpFdA1
— Basketball Forever (@bballforever_) July 30, 2025
Perkins’ theory gains traction when you look at the numbers. Since Mike Dunleavy took over as GM, the Warriors have drafted three players: Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis in 2023, and Quinten Post in 2024. Of the trio, Podziemski has seen the most court time, but all three have earned more starts than Kuminga in the past season. This is particularly striking given Kuminga’s undeniable talent and athletic upside.
However, Perkins’ argument isn’t airtight. Moses Moody, another player drafted under Bob Myers, started in the Warriors’ final 28 games of the regular season, suggesting that the “new regime” isn’t entirely dismissive of Myers’ picks. Still, Kuminga’s inconsistent role—coupled with his postseason benchings—lends credence to the idea that Kerr and the current front office may not see him as a long-term fit.
As contract talks drag on, the Warriors face a pivotal decision. Kuminga’s raw potential makes him a valuable asset, but his development could be stifled if he remains in an environment where he’s not fully embraced. The team’s hesitation to offer him a lucrative extension has already impacted their offseason plans, limiting their ability to address critical roster depth issues. Meanwhile, trade rumors continue to swirl, with Kuminga’s name popping up in discussions with contending teams eager to acquire his services.
Could a change of scenery unlock Kuminga’s true potential? Or will the Warriors find a way to integrate him into their championship-contending core? One thing is certain: the drama surrounding Jonathan Kuminga and the Warriors is far from over. As Kendrick Perkins’ comments ripple through the NBA world, all eyes will be on Golden State to see how they handle their young star—and whether they’re truly ready to give up on him.