Blockbuster Trade: Warriors Shake Things Up by Trading Jonathan Kuminga for Former Duke Star Worth $70
The Golden State Warriors are reportedly exploring a major shake-up to their roster, with Jonathan Kuminga at the center of trade discussions. According to Jackson Caudell and Rohan Roman of Sports Illustrated, the Warriors could be on the verge of a blockbuster three-team trade that would see Kuminga, a promising young forward, swapped for a package headlined by former Duke star Grayson Allen, a sharpshooting veteran valued at $70 million. This potential deal, which also involves Royce O’Neale and an unprotected 2032 first-round draft pick, could reshape Golden State’s roster as they aim to maximize Stephen Curry’s championship window.
The Trade Proposal
In the proposed trade, the Warriors would receive:
Grayson Allen, a 29-year-old elite three-point shooter who knocked down 46.1% of his threes in the 2023-24 season and 42.6% last season with the Phoenix Suns.
Royce O’Neale, a versatile veteran wing known for his defensive tenacity and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor.
An unprotected 2032 first-round draft pick, providing Golden State with a valuable future asset to either bolster their roster or use in further trades.
In exchange, the Phoenix Suns would acquire Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, while the Atlanta Hawks would also receive Moses Moody. This multi-team deal, as outlined by Caudell and Roman, aims to address specific needs for all parties involved while giving the Warriors immediate help and future flexibility.
Why It Makes Sense for the Warriors
The Warriors have struggled to fully integrate Kuminga into their system, despite his undeniable athleticism and potential. As Caudell and Roman noted, “Kuminga dường like he never truly fit with Golden State.” Trading him for proven veterans like Allen and O’Neale could provide the Warriors with the shooting and defensive grit needed to contend now, while the 2032 draft pick adds long-term value.
Grayson Allen, a standout at Duke where he won an NCAA championship as a freshman and earned All-ACC First Team honors as a sophomore, has evolved into one of the NBA’s premier sharpshooters. His career averages of 14.1 points per game, with 41.8% field goal shooting and 38.0% from three-point range, make him an ideal fit alongside Stephen Curry and the Warriors’ motion offense. Allen’s ability to stretch the floor would create more space for Curry and Draymond Green to operate, addressing Golden State’s need for consistent perimeter shooting.
Royce O’Neale, meanwhile, brings defensive versatility and playoff experience, having played key roles for the Utah Jazz and Brooklyn Nets. His ability to guard multiple positions and knock down open shots complements the Warriors’ system. The unprotected 2032 pick could also be a valuable trade chip, as the Warriors look to address their need for a true center to anchor their frontcourt.
The Suns’ Perspective
For the Phoenix Suns, acquiring Kuminga and Moody represents an investment in youth and upside. Kuminga, a former No. 7 overall pick, has shown flashes of star potential with his explosive athleticism and scoring ability. Pairing him with Kevin Durant, Devin Booker, and Bradley Beal could unlock his potential in a new environment. Moody, a versatile wing, adds depth and could develop into a key rotation player for Phoenix. As reported by Jake Fisher of The Stein Line, the Suns have shown interest in Kuminga this offseason, making this trade a plausible scenario.
The Hawks’ Role
The Atlanta Hawks, receiving Moses Moody in the deal, would gain a young player with upside to complement their rebuilding efforts. Moody, who has shown promise as a two-way wing, could thrive with increased opportunities in Atlanta alongside Trae Young and a developing core.
What’s Next for the Warriors?
While the Warriors have yet to make significant progress in trade talks involving Kuminga, this proposed deal could be a game-changer. Allen’s elite shooting and O’Neale’s defensive versatility address immediate needs, while the draft pick provides flexibility for future moves. However, as Caudell and Roman pointed out, Golden State still needs to address their frontcourt, potentially using the 2032 pick to pursue a center to pair with Draymond Green.
As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on the Warriors to see if they pull the trigger on this blockbuster trade. If executed, it could signal their commitment to going all-in for another championship run with Stephen Curry at the helm.