The Sacramento Kings have already been linked to Jonathan Kuminga as a potential suitor next offseason. If Kuminga has a big "prove-it" year, he will be in line for a big payday.
The Sacramento Kings were linked to multiple young and talented free agents on the market this offseason, but the front office has opted for a more quiet approach thus far.
This has worked as far as salary cap goes, as the team moved beneath the second apron and should have significant space to make a move next offseason.
Former No. 7 overall pick Jonathan Kuminga was one talent rumored to have interest from Sacramento, potentially opening the door for a deal in the future.
"The Sacramento Kings is a team Jonathan Kuminga believes will give him a significant payday if he were to reach unrestricted free agency next season," Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer reported on Thursday.
After seeking significant compensation in free agency, Kuminga landed on a much-cheaper deal than expected, signing a two-year, $12.4 million deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
But, with a player option attached to next season, Kuminga is likely treating this year as a prove-it deal, with ambitions of cashing in next offseason.
Entering the NBA, Kuminga was a highly-touted prospect, landing with the Golden State Warriors as part of their vision for the future.
But, Kuminga's playstyle wasn't a great fit next to the 3-point heavy motion offense from the Warriors, creating a rift in playing time and casting doubt on his future with the franchise.
Sure enough, the Warriors dealt Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks prior to the trade deadline last season.
In Atlanta, Kuminga averaged 12.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, making 16 appearances.
In the playoffs, Kuminga had some good showings against the eventual NBA Champion New York Knicks, scoring double-digits in five of the Hawks' six postseason games.
He was most-effective in Atlanta's two victories, scoring 21 and 19 points, while shooting at an efficient clip.
For the Kings, who still lack length and defensive ability next to the offensive-minded backcourt pair of Darius Acuff Jr. and Zach LaVine, Kuminga would fit nicely.
Kuminga's athletic ability and physical upside have always been the main intrigue with the former No. 7 overall pick, as he moves extremely well for his size and stature.
"We wanna continue adding people that are tough, athletic, and that are gonna fit into the style we wanna play," General Manager Scott Perry said in the offseason.
The addition of Ben Simmons should alleviate some of this weakness, but a player like Kuminga is still getting better and is yet to enter his prime.
If Kuminga has a productive season with the Timberwolves, he will likely opt out of his relatively team-friendly deal and seek a payday in free agency.
The Kings are already making waves as a potential suitor.
