WARRIORS STUNNED: Kings Dangle $78 Million Superstar in Bold Kuminga Swap Proposal!

The Sacramento Kings are shaking things up this offseason, and their latest move has the NBA buzzing. Under the leadership of new general manager Scott Perry, the Kings have been aggressively exploring trade options to bolster their roster. While their offseason has been relatively quiet, with only a sign-and-trade acquisition of Dennis Schroder from the Detroit Pistons, Sacramento is now setting its sights on a blockbuster deal that could reshape their future—and send shockwaves through the league.

The target? Golden State Warriors’ restricted free agent forward Jonathan Kuminga. According to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, the 22-year-old forward is eager to join the Kings, who are prepared to offer him the prominent role he’s been seeking—a role the Warriors have been reluctant to guarantee. Sacramento sees Kuminga as a cornerstone piece, but they’re playing hardball to ensure they don’t overpay for the rising star.

Initially, the Kings proposed a package centered around rookie Devin Carter, veteran Dario Saric, and a pair of second-round picks. However, that offer failed to move the needle for Golden State, who have their eyes on Sacramento’s young standouts Keon Ellis and Keegan Murray—players the Kings have firmly declared untouchable. Undeterred, Sacramento has upped the ante with a bold new proposal that has the Warriors’ front office reeling.

According to The Athletic’s Sam Amick, the Kings have put veteran guard Malik Monk—currently in the second year of a four-year, $78 million contract—on the table, alongside a lottery-protected 2030 first-round pick. If the pick doesn’t convey, Golden State would receive the less favorable of Sacramento’s or San Antonio’s 2031 first-round pick. The Kings have also sweetened the deal with a reported three-year, $63 million contract offer for Kuminga, averaging $21 million annually—a significant raise, though still below the max-level deal Kuminga is reportedly seeking.

The Warriors, however, are hesitant. While Monk’s scoring prowess and dynamic playstyle make him an intriguing asset, his $78 million contract doesn’t align with Golden State’s goal of trimming payroll. Additionally, the Warriors are pushing back on the pick protections, insisting on an unprotected first-rounder to finalize the deal. This disagreement over protections has emerged as the primary sticking point, with both sides digging in as negotiations continue.

The potential trade is a high-stakes gamble for both franchises. For Sacramento, landing Kuminga could provide the athletic, two-way forward they’ve been craving to complement their core. For Golden State, parting with Kuminga—a former No. 7 overall pick with sky-high potential—would be a tough pill to swallow, especially if Monk’s contract complicates their financial flexibility.

As the offseason clock ticks, all eyes are on Sacramento and Golden State. Will the Kings’ bold offer pry Kuminga loose, or will the Warriors hold firm for a better deal? One thing is certain: this trade saga is far from over, and the NBA world is watching closely.