Could Kuminga and Westbrook team up in the Western Conference?
Warriors' Jonathan Kuminga sign-and-trade could impact Russell Westbrook's next team originally appeared on The Sporting News
The Golden State Warriors’ offseason has been stalled as they navigate a contract standoff with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga.
However, a sign-and-trade still remains a viable option if the two sides fail to reach an agreement. With teams around the league monitoring Kuminga's contract situation, the Sacramento Kings have emerged as a prominent suitor for the promising 22-year-old forward.
The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross on Sactown Sports 1140 discussed the implications of a potential sign-and-trade deal between the Kings and Warriors, linking the futures of nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook and Kuminga.
“We do know this: For the Westbrook thing to happen, the Kuminga thing would almost definitely have to happen,” they said.
"We do know this: For the Westbrook thing to happen, the Kuminga thing would almost definitely have to happen."@CarmichaelDave & @JasonRoss1140 discuss how the Kings' pursuits of Jonathan Kuminga & Russell Westbrook are correlated: pic.twitter.com/O8BtMKj7pX
— Sactown Sports 1140 (@Sactown1140) August 5, 2025
MORE: Warriors could target shooting guard upgrade in Jonathan Kuminga sign-and-trade
Westbrook has remained connected to the Kings this offseason after he declined his player option with the Denver Nuggets. Sacramento would be able to clear room for Westbrook in a potential Kuminga sign-and-trade by moving a guard like Devin Carter or Malik Monk.
Such a trade would likely leave the Kings with a backcourt featuring Westbrook, Zach LaVine, Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder at the very least, depending on who is included in the trade. Kuminga would slot into a starting role in the frontcourt alongside DeMar DeRozan and Domantas Sabonis. If Kuminga takes the next step in his development, this retooled roster would represent an upgrade over last season's 40-42 squad.
If Sacramento is looking to avoid a full rebuild, this type of move would keep them relevant in the Western Conference. As for the Warriors, it remains to be seen whether they'll pursue a sign-and-trade, but if the stalemate with Kuminga persists, they may become more eager to trade him.
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Category: Basketball
