Warriors predicted to cut ties with $48 million NBA champion via trade

Warriors predicted to cut ties with $48 million NBA champion via trade originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga returned to the hardwood on Saturday vs. the New Orleans Pelicans following a multi-game absence due to a knee injury.

For his first game back in the Dubs’ lineup, Kuminga was solid, finishing with 10 points and two assists while shooting 50% from the field and 40% from three-point land.

However, Kuminga is still a prime trade candidate for the Warriors in mid-November, as the Dubs have continuously struggled to get the most out of the talented 23-year-old NBA champion.

In ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel’s mind, there’s a good chance the Warriors will move on from the Goma, DR Congo native if the right trade package is presented to the franchise.

“The expectation is that the Warriors will be evaluating all options on the trade market regarding experienced frontcourt depth and athletic wings,” Siegel wrote Friday.

“Should Kuminga be traded, the Dubs will do so with the intention of adding size and a player on the wing who could fill the role (Andrew) Wiggins held during his time with Golden State.”

“As far as suitors for Kuminga go, the regulars are still relevant. Interest from the Phoenix Suns and Sacramento Kings will exist prior to the trade deadline, much like this past summer.”

“Bull/Sell Verdict:Buy Warriors trading Kuminga for wing and frontcourt depth… but it's still too early to say.”

The fact that Kuminga has drawn interest from multiple franchises dating back to last year speaks volumes about his trade value.

Although Kuminga’s three-point shooting isn’t where it should be five seasons into his career, his above-the-rim athleticism and alluring off-the-dribble burst are challenging to ignore.

That said, trades are intended to benefit both parties involved, so even if an Eastern or Western Conference organization is open to taking a chance on Kuminga, the Dubs must ensure a potential deal is worthwhile on their end.

So far, Golden State has been met with a deal they feel comfortable executing, but things could be different during this year’s trade season.

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