Jonathan Kuminga removed from Warriors rotation as trade whispers grow

Benched role and the coach’s view

Jonathan Kuminga, the young forward from Golden State, has been taken out of the Warriors’ regular rotation and looks increasingly likely to be moved before the trade deadline. After a turbulent summer that left questions about his future, Kuminga did sign a two-year extension to stay with the franchise that picked him seventh overall in 2021. Despite that, he was a healthy scratch for the December 8 win over Chicago and saw very limited action on a recent road trip even with key veterans sidelined.

Head coach Steve Kerr had hoped to mold Kuminga into a complementary wing role similar to what he once valued in another player, but inconsistent shooting, rising turnovers, spotty decision-making and lapses in transition defense have pushed Kerr to change course. The coach has discussed the situation with Kuminga and says the priority is helping him develop, even if that means the player could flourish elsewhere.

Production dip and trade outlook

Kuminga started the season hot, averaging over 17 points in his first seven games, but his scoring dropped sharply afterward to under nine points across the next stretch, despite seeing more possessions. Those regression signs, combined with defensive concerns, have fed trade speculation. Teams like Sacramento and Phoenix have been mentioned as potential destinations, though nothing is confirmed.

The Warriors sit around the middle of the Western Conference, and are waiting on the returns of their stars to stabilize the lineup. For now, Kuminga is off the regular rotation and his future with the club looks uncertain—whether he finds a new role in Golden State or gets packaged in a deal, the next few weeks could be decisive for his career trajectory.