"Golden State is bluffing" - Former Warriors guard red flags Congolese forward's $224 million contract extension
The Golden State Warriors have looming decisions for the upcoming season as Congolese forward Jonathan Kuminga enters the final year of his rookie contract.
According to NBA reporter Jake Fischer, Kuminga seeks a max extension worth $220 million. Gilbert Arenas discussed this topic on his podcast, Gil's Arena.
The former All-Star gave insight into the situation and stated that Kuminga's ability to get the deal he wants depends on his performance this season.
"Golden State is bluffing. It's a bluff, right? Since he's restricted, it's basically on him. Think about it. You go out there and average 20 & 10.'I'd give it to him."
However, Arenas added that Kuminga should still receive an offer for $150 million even if he underperforms. [2 hour, 30 minute mark]
The Athletic's Anthony Slater reported that the Warriors aren't ready to offer Kuminga the extension he desires.
Since the combo forward will become a restricted free agent, his front office has no reason to offer him a deal yet. Warrior's brass can analyze Kuminga this year, and if they want to keep him after his contract expires, they can match any offer he receives.
As such, the pressure really is on Kuminga. He needs to maintain his output from last season, when he posted career-highs in early every major statistical category.
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Jonathan Kuminga moved between starter and sixth man during his breakout season for the Warriors
The 2023-24 campaign was full of challenges for the Golden State Warriors. They struggled to find a rhythm, which resulted in their Play-in tournament loss.
Despite GSW's struggles, Jonathan Kuminga performed well. He nearly doubled his points per game average in his third NBA season.
He also showed he could impact the game, whether in the starting lineup or coming off the bench. Of the 74 games he played last season, he started 46.
Interestingly, Kuminga's production didn't drop much when he came off the bench. In the 46 games he started, Kuminga averaged 17.2 points and 5.2 rebounds. In his 28 games as a reserve, he added 14.2 points and 4.2 rebounds.
This shows Kuminga is reliable in a high-pressure environment. He started every game he played in February and March, when the Playoff race heated up.
Golden State has no reason not to meet his asking price if he plays well this year. He can become a Warriors rebuild pillar with Klay Thompson gone and Steph Curry aging.
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