Warriors expected to trade 23-year-old NBA champion in 'inevitable' push for immediate success

The Golden State Warriors have started the 2025-26 season on a rocky note. With an 11-10 record and a modest 1.3 net rating, ranking 16th in the NBA, the team is likely exploring trade options to strengthen their roster alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.

As the veteran core chases another championship, the Warriors may look to make a major move involving 23-year-old forward Jonathan Kuminga. The team and Kuminga were at the center of offseason discussions surrounding his restricted free agency, and with the trade deadline approaching, CBS Sports analyst Sam Quinn predicts a deal is imminent.

"The supporting cast isn't good enough," Quinn stated. "This team feels like a work in progress. The inevitable Kuminga trade will help, but the stars (and Moses Moody) are the only ones pulling their weight thus far."

Trading Kuminga would give Curry a stronger chance at securing his fifth championship. The 6-foot-7 forward, selected seventh overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, has shown significant growth, and moving him could allow the Warriors to acquire a proven contributor with postseason experience.

This season, Kuminga has averaged 13.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists over 14 games, with an effective field goal percentage of 52.8%. Teams like the Sacramento Kings and Brooklyn Nets have been mentioned as potential trade destinations, though no deal has yet materialized.

Author: Sophia Brooks