The Golden State Warriors opted against bringing in any new talent at the Feb. 8 trade deadline, but they struck a deal to send Cory Joseph to the Indiana Pacers. Joseph was later waived. By choosing to stand pat, it would appear the Warriors franchise has faith in the current roster to turn their season around.
According to Mike Dunleavy Jr., as The Athletic’s Anthony Slater reported, Jonathan Kuminga was virtually untouchable in trade discussions. The third-year forward has been enjoying a breakout season and looks like a legitimate star of the future in the Bay Area.
“Mike Dunleavy said Jonathan Kuminga was “virtually” untouchable in trade talks: “As untouchable as guys can be in this league. Didn’t see a scenario where Jonathan wouldn’t be on our team after this deadline,”” Slater wrote on X.
Kuminga has participated in 48 games this season. He’s averaging 15.5 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.8 assists, shooting 53.6% from the field and 31.7% from 3-point range. His athleticism and explosiveness have provided the Warriors with a genuine threat around the rim, allowing them to add pressure on opposing teams’ interior defense.
Warriors fans will hope Steve Kerr continues to develop Kuminga. Given his overall improvements, there’s hope that he can continue to grow and work toward being an All-Star-level talent in the future. As such, it makes sense the Warriors were unwilling to part with one of their best young players in any potential trades.
