Golden State Warriors Jonathan Kuminga wants out, and the Miami Heat emerges as a desired destination. Could this young forward ignite South Beach?
The trade deadline is less than a month away, but business appears slow, as Trae Young's move to the Washington Wizards was the first in-season blockbuster deal. The Miami Heat have been linked to two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant, who appears to be done with the Memphis Grizzlies. The 26-year-old's market value is at an all-time low, averaging 19 points, 3.2 rebounds, 7.6 assists, and a steal while shooting 40.1 percent from the field, 20.8 percent from three-point range in 18 games.
However, a more liable option has emerged. Jonathan Kuminga became trade-eligible on Thursday and is demanding to be dealt from the Golden State Warriors. After years of playing in a minimal role and signing a short-term two-year, $46.8 million contract, with a club option for next season, the 23-year-old is seeking a new home.
Kuminga is averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists while shooting 43.1 percent from the field, 32 percent from three-point range in 18 games. However, he's collected 16 "Did Not Play - Coach's Decision." The former first-round pick sought a trade during the offseason, the Sacramento Kings having consistent interest, but weren't able to agree to terms on a deal.
As the trade deadline approaches, teams will likely line up for a young, talented forward, such as Kuminga, who's on a valuable team-friendly contract. It's been reported that he would welcome the Miami Heat as a new chapter for his professional career.
The Heat have young, talented role players that could be built into a package for Kuminga. The only difficult part is having one that the Warriors can afford to take, being $264,372 from surpassing the second apron. Norman Powell's $20.42 million salary would be the easiest path to getting a deal done. The veteran guard is averaging 23.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 steals while shooting 48.5 percent from the field, 41.4 percent from three-point range in 34 games.
The Warriors are still looking to compete for a championship as long as superstar Steph Curry is playing. However, as currently constructed, the roster has proven to have the capabilities of getting that done. They currently sit with a 22-19 record, eighth in the Western Conference standings. Perhaps adding a veteran with championship experience and currently on pace to be an All-Star could provide a big boost.
Both organizations worked out the Jimmy Butler trade at last year's deadline, with the help of the Utah Jazz, Detroit Pistons, and Toronto Raptors. In Kuminga's case, it might not have to go to those lengths, but a deal could get done ahead of the Feb. 5th deadline.
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