The contract negotiations between Jonathan Kuminga and the Golden State Warriors have reached a critical point with the October 1st deadline fast approaching. The young forward, a restricted free agent, is seeking a long-term deal that grants him future flexibility, something the Warriors have not offered thus far.  They have put multiple offers on the table, including a three-year, $75 million deal, but these proposals have included team options, which Kuminga’s camp has rejected. His agent, Aaron Turner, has been clear about their stance, even suggesting Kuminga is prepared to accept a one-year qualifying offer as it still gives him the in-built no-trade clause while giving him the ability to shop teams next free agency

This stalemate is more than just a financial disagreement; it speaks to Kuminga’s desired role and security within the franchise. While veterans like Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are committed to the team’s future, Kuminga’s absence from a key offseason gathering signals a growing disconnect. With so many complications and aspects to be considered, Shams Charania has thrown another spanner in the works.

On Instagram, Charania revealed, “One player that is not there, the only player on the potential Warriors roster that isn’t there, is a restricted free agent, Jonathan Kuminga. My understanding is he is not appearing at this team function, this camaraderie minicamp in San Diego”. This minicamp, hosted by Jimmy Butler, was designed for the team to build chemistry and work on new strategies ahead of training camp. Charania noted the minicamp was a true “team function” featuring Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, and others- and added “Jonathan Kuminga did not appear at the first kind of team related event the Warriors players had today”.

Charania provided an update directly from Kuminga’s agent, stating, “I spoke to Aaron Turner, Kuminga’s agent today, and he told me the player option still remains critical in these conversations.” This confirms that the structure of the contract, not just the total money, is the primary sticking point. The reporter noted that despite offers being on the table, “these sides still at a stalemate,” emphasizing that Kuminga’s absence from a team-organized event is a significant statement during a sensitive negotiation period.

The financial details highlight the gap between the two sides. The Warriors’ three-year, $75 million offer guarantees $48.3 million over the first two seasons, with a team option for the third year. However, Kuminga seeks a player option that would give him control over his future after the second season. This demand reflects his desire for flexibility and belief in his market value, especially with the salary cap expected to rise in coming years. The Warriors, constrained by salary cap rules, are hesitant to set a precedent that could affect future negotiations.

Further, the Warriors have shown the inclination to shop the player around, rejecting two sign-and-trade offers simply because they think their asset deserves more. There are clear roster ripple effects if Kuminga sits out or signs only on the qualifying offer. The Warriors have delayed adding some veteran wings like Al Horford until this is resolved. Moreover, sources say owner Joe Lacob and GM Mike Dunleavy have both engaged in talks to find a path forward that preserves trade flexibility while keeping a promising young player in the fold.

If Kuminga elects the qualifying offer, he gains a no trade like cushion and unrestricted free agency next year, but he also gives up tens of millions in guaranteed money up front. That trade off is why this offseason has looked more like chess than a typical signing period.

This situation represents a pivotal moment for both Kuminga and the Warriors organization. The player’s absence from team functions signals a growing disconnect that could affect locker room chemistry. As the deadline approaches, the resolution of this contract drama will significantly impact the team’s composition and morale for the upcoming season.

Aaron Turner insists Kuminga wants to play for the Warriors

Aaron Turner has taken negotiations public, speaking with ESPN and the Warriors’ radio partners in a bid to apply pressure as the deadline looms. He insisted his client would be “itching to play” even if reduced to the $7.9 million qualifying offer, though he stressed Kuminga’s long-term goal is to reach unrestricted free agency healthy in 2026 or 2027. Turner said openly, “If JK came back on the QO, would he be excited to play? Yeah, he’s itching to play right now. But the reality is … he’s got to get to the summer of ’26, ’27 healthy”. That remark carried a clear message to Kerr and the coaching staff about priorities if no deal is struck.

At the same time Turner framed himself as willing to aid roster construction, even suggesting the Warriors use savings on veterans like Al Horford. He explained, “Look, I’ll sacrifice for that. Give Al the taxpayer mid level, comes in, it helps”. He also brushed off concerns about the lack of external offers in restricted free agency, likening Kuminga’s value to an expensive car, saying “If I have a Lambo worth $175k on Monday, why take $60k on Saturday just because I need cash?”. That line was Turner’s way of claiming patience will be rewarded with a stronger market in 2026.

In perhaps the most direct comment aimed at Kerr, Turner promised the player would stay fully engaged if business was handled with respect. “I think it is important, when you have a player this important as JK, to feel good about the business so that the basketball can be the focus,” he said. Owner Joe Lacob has already stepped in for face-to-face talks as the pressure builds.

Turner insists the only missing piece is converting that team option into a player option, but if the Warriors do not shift, Kuminga could sign the qualifying offer and leave Golden State with no trade leverage. As the October 1 deadline looms, every word and promise from both sides is being weighed against what happens when camp opens.