The Golden State Warriors are serving up some serious contract spice, and Jonathan Kuminga is caught right in the middle of it.

With restricted free agency heating up, the Warriors aren’t playing nice – they’re demanding a first-round draft pick for any potential sign-and-trade deal involving their 22-year-old forward. NBA Insider Marc Stein spilled the tea, revealing that while Kuminga’s camp is shopping around for opportunities, Golden State is holding firm.

The Contract Standoff

Sacramento and Phoenix have emerged as the most determined suitors, but there’s a catch. The Suns don’t even have a first-round pick to offer, making this negotiation more complicated than a tech startup’s cap table.

The Warriors’ best offer so far? A two-year, $40 million contract that’s about as appealing as a lukewarm Blue Bottle coffee. Kuminga, who averaged 15.3 points last season before an ankle injury sidelined him, isn’t exactly in a power position.

Playoff Performance Pressure

His playoff performance against the Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves was a mixed bag. While he showed flashes of brilliance in the Timberwolves series – averaging 20.8 points – inconsistent playing time has been a recurring theme.

The Future Remains Uncertain

Right now, it’s a high-stakes game of contract chicken. The Warriors are making it clear: Kuminga will only be traded if the price is right. For now, Bay Area basketball fans are left watching this dramatic negotiation unfold, popcorn in hand.