What is Jonathan Kuminga Worth to Golden State?

Following a summer void of superstar-netting trades, the Golden State Warriors front office proved they hold stock in their young players, mainly Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga. Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. even made Podziemski "untouchable." However, will Golden State put its money where its mouth is by signing Kuminga to a contract extension?

Recently, Orlando Magic Franz Wagner and Toronto Raptors Scottie Barnes received full rookie-scale contract extensions worth $225 million. However, considering the Warriors' current delicate cap situation, they will unlikely sign Kuminga to such a massive contract.

According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, "the Warriors will likely be looking in the ballpark of $140 million to $155 million."

Kuminga hasn't indicated much proof he is the second-best player on a playoff team material. However, on the heels of hitting career-high numbers, Kuminga stepped up to at least help the Warriors compete, while Draymond Green had significant time due to multiple suspensions.

Last season, Kuminga averaged 16 points on primarily above-average shooting metrics. The 2024-25 season is pivotal for Kuminga, as, without Klay Thompson, the Warriors lack a clear option next to Stephen Curry. With Green aging out of his prime, Kuminga's defensive performance is also an x-factor for a team coming off a failed season.

Unless the Warriors trade for a superstar or an All-Star-level player, they will unlikely make the playoffs without significant improvement from Kuminga.

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Moreover, if the Warriors' wing wishes to receive such a payday, or at least have a legitimate conversation, he'll need to produce like his 2021 NBA Draft class counterparts.