Why isn’t Jonathan Kuminga playing? This question is echoing among Golden State Warriors fans and NBA insiders as the offseason heats up and Kuminga’s status remains uncertain. New updates as of July 2025 shed light on both the on-court decisions and behind-the-scenes negotiations that have left this 22-year-old standout watching from the sidelines.
Recent Developments: Kuminga’s Changing Status with the Warriors
Jonathan Kuminga’s career with Golden State has hit a crossroads. Once viewed as a cornerstone for the team’s next chapter, Kuminga is now caught in complicated contract discussions, changing rotations, and swirling trade rumors. The most recent playoff run put his absence under the spotlight, leaving fans frustrated and demanding answers.
Key Points Summary
- Kuminga benched in crucial late-season and playoff games.
- Head coach Steve Kerr cited lineup fit and strategy as main reasons.
- Contract talks have stalled; Kuminga’s camp seeking $30M+.
- Multiple teams floated as trade partners, but nothing finalized.
- Warriors expected to make more moves once Kuminga’s future is clarified.
Why Isn’t Jonathan Kuminga Playing? Golden State’s Decision Explained
Golden State head coach Steve Kerr has offered insight into the on-court decision to bench Kuminga at critical times. During must-win games against the Clippers and in the play-in, Kuminga did not see a single minute. The reasoning, according to Kerr, revolves around the team’s lineups—specifically the fit of Kuminga with stars like Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. Kerr has expressed concerns over floor spacing with all three on the court simultaneously.
While Kuminga’s athleticism is unquestioned, Kerr has favored veterans in high-pressure moments. This strategy has frustrated fans, especially as Golden State’s offense has sputtered in stretches when Kuminga might have provided a spark.
| Game | Kuminga Minutes | Result |
|---|---|---|
| vs. L.A. Clippers | 0 | Loss |
| Play-In vs. Memphis | 0 | Win |
| Playoffs Games 4-6 (HOU) | 0 | Mixed |
- Kerr has said, “Everything is on the table,” but action hasn’t followed.
- Kuminga averages 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds in the regular season—solid numbers for a 22-year-old forward.
The Off-Court Story: Contracts, Trades, and Locker Room Dynamics
Beyond rotation issues, contract drama is now front and center. Kuminga is a restricted free agent, reportedly seeking a lucrative deal north of $30M per year. Golden State’s ownership is open to retaining him, but the market has cooled, making a sign-and-trade scenario more likely than a simple return.
Recent reports say multiple teams, including the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, Utah Jazz, Brooklyn Nets, and Charlotte Hornets, have all been linked to Kuminga at various points this summer. Yet, as of today, none have moved seriously, and the Warriors’ front office is facing a tightrope walk between extracting value in a trade and avoiding losing a prized young talent for nothing.
Complicating matters further are reports of a fractured relationship between Kuminga and coach Steve Kerr. Frustration has boiled over, with some insiders suggesting Kuminga has no desire to return under current conditions. Teammates have referred to him in the past tense, hinting at an expected departure.
What Happens Next for Kuminga and Golden State?
While fans wait for answers to “why isn’t Jonathan Kuminga playing,” league sources predict a short-term reunion is possible if a trade cannot be reached, but only until the market changes ahead of the next trade deadline.
The Warriors currently have just nine players under contract for the coming season, meaning Kuminga’s situation is crucial to shaping the roster’s final form. With his combination of youth, athleticism, and recent production, his saga will remain one of the off-season’s most watched events.
Warriors and NBA fans alike should keep a close eye on further developments, as Kuminga’s next move could reshape both his career and Golden State’s future