The NBA Trade Deadline is quickly approaching, and it is shaping up to be an active one with several legitimate title contenders in the mix. One team to watch is the Golden State Warriors, as Jimmy Butler’s injury has occurred and young forward Jonathan Kuminga has officially requested a trade.
“On the first day he became eligible to be moved, fifth-year forward Jonathan Kuminga demanded a trade away from the Golden State Warriors, league sources told ESPN. Kuminga could not be traded until Thursday, according to the terms of the contract he signed this summer,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.
The Warriors will now begin searching for potential suitors to move Kuminga. One interested team is the Los Angeles Lakers, who are looking to continue building around Luka Doncic. Los Angeles could have an intriguing offer to present to Golden State.
“The Lakers have legitimate interest in trading for Jonathan Kuminga. With the Kings now unwilling to part with a future protected first-round pick, Los Angeles could swoop in and make an enticing offer to the Warriors,” NBA reporter Evan Sidery posted.
The Lakers and Warriors have already engaged in trade talks. Now, it is simply a matter of whether what Los Angeles is offering will be enticing enough for Golden State. The Lakers do not have many highly attractive pieces to include in a deal.
“The Lakers and Warriors have conducted brief trade discussions involving Jonathan Kuminga. Los Angeles appears willing to offer the expiring contracts of Gabe Vincent and Maxi Kleber alongside a 2032 2nd-round pick,” Sidery wrote.
What the Lakers are currently offering is somewhat awkward and not necessarily what the Warriors need. Vincent is a capable shooter, but he has struggled to stay healthy, and his defense is serviceable at best.
The Lakers would be the clear winners of this trade if it were to transpire. They would be acquiring a young star who is still waiting for the opportunity to break out. Kuminga may not get that chance in Golden State, but he very well could in Los Angeles.
