Steve Kerr disappointed with Jonathan Kuminga amid transfer rumors

Kuminga signed a new two-year contract worth $48.5 million with the Warriors in September 2025, but he has struggled to make a consistent impact since the start of the 2025-26 season. Initially included alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, Kuminga was part of a strong 4-1 start to the campaign.

His form has dipped significantly in recent weeks. Primarily coming off the bench, Kuminga has not featured in a game since December 19, 2025. Statistically, his efficiency has declined, with a 47.3 percent shooting rate on two-pointers, 32 percent from three-point range, 6.2 rebounds and 0.3 steals per game. He is averaging 11.8 points per contest, well below his output from the previous two seasons.

Speaking about Kuminga’s situation, Kerr admitted his frustration. “Well, I'm disappointed for him that things didn't continue to go the way they did the first couple of weeks. At the same time, it was going to be tricky to start JK, Jimmy, Draymond at the two-three-four.

“I think anyone can see that's a tough five-man combination based on shooting. Sometimes Steph can just offset every spacing obstacle in your way, he's that good. But in the modern NBA, I think it's going to be tough to do that. And I think we recognized that.”

Kerr added: “We gave that lineup several weeks, and eventually, I think the weaknesses of the lineup were exposed. That's why we went in a different direction.”

Amid Kuminga’s reduced role, reports suggest the Warriors could explore a trade in January. However, he will only become eligible for a move from 15 January, once the terms of his contract allow a transfer.

According to ClutchPoints, a complex three-team trade scenario has been discussed involving the Sacramento Kings, Brooklyn Nets and the Warriors. Under the proposed deal, Golden State would receive Michael Porter Jr. from the Nets, Sacramento would land Kuminga, while Brooklyn would acquire Malik Monk along with a salary filler from the Warriors and an additional draft pick.

The Warriors are currently eighth in the Western Conference with a 21-18 record. The potential addition of Porter Jr. is seen as a way to ease the scoring burden on Stephen Curry. This season, Porter Jr. has been averaging 25.9 points per game, leading the Nets in scoring.