Trade discussions between the Sacramento Kings and Golden State Warriors, though more frequent for in-state rivals, have once again hit a dead end. The Warriors, reportedly exploring sign-and-trade options to find a new home for Jonathan Kuminga, have been in talks with the Kings, but no deal has come to fruition.
According to ABC10’s Matt George, the Kings made an offer that included Dario Saric, rookie Devin Carter, and draft compensation. However, the Warriors, unmoved by the proposal, declined to move forward with the trade.
Kuminga, a 22-year-old forward with high potential, is seen as a player who could thrive with a fresh start elsewhere. The Kings, with their need for young, athletic talent, appear to be an intriguing destination for Kuminga. However, the idea of including Devin Carter in the trade package has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike.
Carter, 23, had a challenging rookie season, marred by injuries, averaging just 3.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.6 steals in 11.0 minutes per game across 36 appearances. Despite his modest stats, Carter is viewed as a high-potential two-way guard, and trading him prematurely could haunt the Kings—a scenario they’ve experienced before.
I’m hearing the Kings are attempting to use pieces like Devin Carter & Dario Saric, and even draft compensation to Golden State, as part of a Kuminga deal. @ABC10 https://t.co/BfEB6lXayo
— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) July 3, 2025
With the Summer League approaching, Carter’s debut is highly anticipated, but the trade speculation has followed him into the offseason. Speaking to the Sacramento Bee’s Jason Anderson, Carter addressed how he’s navigating the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Devin Carter said he’s been functioning as the primary PG for Sacramento early in their Summer League practices.
The guard said he put a lot of time into improving in that role (making reads) this offseason and is excited to show it in Vegas.
— Brenden Nunes (@BrendenNunesNBA) July 8, 2025
“My pops played for 13 years,” Carter said. “He’s been traded a lot. I just talk to him about how he handled it. That will stay between us, what me and my pops be talking about, but I just come in to work every day, obviously thankful for the opportunity to be here, show up with a ready-to-work mentality all the time, and it is what it is. It’s a business.”
Acquiring Kuminga would align with the Kings’ goal of getting younger and more dynamic, but sacrificing Carter in the process is a tough pill to swallow. As trade talks around Kuminga reportedly cool, Carter’s status on the trade market remains unclear. However, with the summer in full swing, it seems increasingly likely that the young guard could be moved before the new season begins.