NBA Rumors: Warriors draw line in sand in contract negotiations with rising star

The Golden State Warriors are preparing for the start of training camp in a few weeks. but there is one underrated storyline that is still waiting to be resolved. Warriors forward Johnathan Kuminga has yet to sign a contract extension with the team and it seems increasingly possible that he won't before the October 21st deadline.

According to the Athletics Anthony Slater (subscription required), Kuminga is expecting a max contract extension from Golden State, but they are not expected to meet his contract demands and their offer may be far less than the $224 million max.

If the two sides can't agree on the extension before the deadline, then Kuminga will become a restricted free agent in the summer of 2025. And in that event, several teams with cap space could look to sign him away from the Warriors. Golden State will still have the right of first refusal but would be vulnerable to being outmaneuvered by another team.

For instance, a crafty team may sign him to fewer years but more money annually. That would negatively affect Golden State's salary situation. It would also allow Kuminga to hit unrestricted free agency faster.

Are the Golden State Warriors prepared to lose Jonathan Kuminga?

Despite his clear potential, it seems that he is no longer the team's top prospect with the emergence of Brandin Podziemski. Reports have the Warriors giving Podziemski the green light next season, allowing him to fire away from outside.

Meanwhile, Kuminga is entering his fourth year and has yet to average 30 minutes per game. He was also part of the Warriors trade package to try and acquire Lauri Markannen from the Utah Jazz. That fell through, and now Kuminga will return next season.

He may still have a big season for Golden State but may do so without him signing an extension. Playing out next season without a contract extension is risky for Kuminga. If he plays poorly or even at the same level as last season, then he may not be able to command a big offer in restricted free agency next summer.

On the other hand, if he takes a big leap in his contract year, then he could be a top free-agency target for several cap space teams. They will be looking to try a talented player away without having to give up any picks and he may be that player.

Even if he agrees to a big offer sheet and the Warriors aren't willing to match, they could work out a sign-and-trade to ensure they don't lose him for nothing. As a result, standing firm and not offering him the max may pay off for the Warriors in the long run.