NBA Rumors: The 3-Team Trade That Could See Jonathan Kuminga Leave the Warriors

It's just a matter of time before Jonathan Kuminga leaves Golden State. The forward became tradable on January 15th and immediately requested to be moved. In the Warriors' offices, there isn't much resistance to that idea, although the franchise is still looking for a deal that truly convinces them.

In recent weeks, multiple hypothetical scenarios have circulated, including one that sent Kuminga to Dallas. Now, however, a different proposal is on the table that would take him to a team that tried to sign him last summer: the Phoenix Suns.

The operation, proposed by Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, would be structured as a three-team trade. In this scenario, the Phoenix Suns would receive Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis. The Golden State Warriors would acquire De’Andre Hunter, while the Cleveland Cavaliers would get Royce O’Neale, Nick Richards, and Ryan Dunn.

The Suns attempted to acquire Kuminga last summer through a sign-and-trade when the player was a restricted free agent. That move was described as the "most lucrative attempt" to take him from Golden State, with an offer of four years and 90 million dollars. However, the proposal fell short of the player's demands, who was aiming for a salary close to $30 million annually.

In Phoenix, they believe the circumstances are different now. Swartz highlights the role of the new head coach, Jordan Ott, whom he describes as someone who is "quickly becoming a master of player development." The idea would be to put Kuminga under his guidance and finally help him unleash his full potential.

A Quiet Succession for the Warriors

For Golden State, acquiring De’Andre Hunter would be a nearly perfect fit. He is a versatile, athletic forward specialized in the 3-and-D role, with a high defensive level. Additionally, his personal profile plays in his favor, as highlighted by Swartz who describes him as a player with a calm character and drama-free.

The contrast with Kuminga's situation in the Warriors would be evident. According to Swartz himself, his "relaxed personality and controversy-free game" would be a relief for an organization that has had to deal with constant tension around the young forward.

As for the Cavaliers, the trade also holds several attractions. Royce O’Neale has a close relationship with Donovan Mitchell from their time together in Utah, which is a positive point. Additionally, Cleveland would receive Ryan Dunn, a player capable of defending multiple positions, and Nick Richards, who would provide depth at the center position, along with an expiring contract.

Another key factor is the financial aspect. The Cavs need to ease their situation regarding the second salary apron, and Swartz points out that this deal would clearly contribute to that objective.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Rumores NBA: El traspaso a 3 bandas con el que Jonathan Kuminga terminaría saliendo de los Warriors