The Golden State Warriors are at a critical juncture as training camp looms, with their young star Jonathan Kuminga still unsigned as a restricted free agent. The ongoing contract stalemate has sparked intense speculation about the team’s future, and NBA insider Jake Fischer recently dropped a bombshell on a Bleacher Report live stream that could reshape the Warriors’ roster in a historic way.
The Warriors and Kuminga have yet to find common ground on a new deal, leaving the door open for the four-year forward to accept a one-year qualifying offer. This move would grant Kuminga a no-trade clause, giving him full control over his future and potentially allowing him to walk away from Golden State next offseason for nothing. For the Warriors, this scenario would be a nightmare, as Kuminga is widely regarded as their most valuable trade asset.
A long-term deal for Kuminga, ideally in the $25 million per year range, would not only secure his future with the team but also make him a tradeable asset in blockbuster deals. And according to Fischer, the Warriors have their sights set on a game-changing target: New Orleans Pelicans’ rising star Trey Murphy III.
“Trey Murphy in New Orleans is someone the Warriors really have interest in,” Fischer revealed. The Warriors nearly drafted Murphy at No. 14 overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, ultimately choosing Moses Moody while also weighing Kuminga against Franz Wagner. Now, with Murphy emerging as a premier wing player, Golden State sees him as the perfect fit alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
Murphy, who recently inked a four-year, $112 million contract extension with the Pelicans, is coming off a breakout 2024-25 season. The 25-year-old averaged career-highs of 21.2 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists, while shooting an impressive 45.4% from the field, 36.1% from three-point range, and 88.7% from the free-throw line. His two-way versatility and steady improvement make him an ideal addition to a Warriors team looking to maximize their championship window.
The Pelicans’ dismal 21-61 record last season has left them far from contention, making Murphy a prime trade candidate at this year’s deadline. A package centered around Kuminga, paired with draft picks, could be enough to pry the $112 million star away from New Orleans. However, the Warriors’ ability to pull off such a deal hinges on Kuminga signing a multi-year contract rather than the qualifying offer.
The Warriors are no strangers to bold roster moves, and acquiring Murphy could be the kind of blockbuster trade that redefines their future. With Kuminga’s contract situation unresolved, the front office faces immense pressure to act swiftly. If they can secure Kuminga on a tradeable deal, the Warriors might just “shatter the bank” to land Murphy and solidify their place as championship contenders.