One of the NBA’s hottest trade rumors is heating up as the February deadline approaches, and the spotlight is on Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga. The 23-year-old, a rising star in the Bay Area, has not played since November 12 against the San Antonio Spurs, missing a total of seven games due to bilateral patellar tendinitis, according to Danny Emerman of The San Francisco Standard.
The injury has proven more severe than initially thought, leaving fans and analysts questioning how long the Warriors will have to wait before Kuminga returns to full action. Despite the setback, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr told reporters Tuesday that Kuminga participated in a recent 5-on-5 scrimmage, suggesting the young forward is working hard to regain his rhythm. However, no official timetable for his return has been set.
Enter the trade rumors. On a recent episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, NBA analyst and founder of The Ringer Bill Simmons floated a blockbuster three-team trade proposal that would send Kuminga to the Chicago Bulls, while also involving the Dallas Mavericks. According to Simmons, the deal is designed to help all three franchises address their current roster needs while positioning them for long-term success.
Here’s how Simmons laid it out:
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Warriors receive: Daniel Gafford and an expiring contract from Chicago
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Mavericks receive: Coby White
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Bulls receive: Jonathan Kuminga
Simmons explained his reasoning during the podcast. “The moment White came back to Chicago, it kind of screwed them up. I’m not positive they need him. I actually think they probably need another wing and more explosiveness,” he said, highlighting the Bulls’ desire to add athleticism and depth to their roster.
With Josh Giddey already commanding a major role in Chicago, Simmons added that keeping White long-term might not make financial sense. White is set to become a free agent soon, and the Bulls may prefer to redirect their resources to acquiring a versatile forward like Kuminga.
For the Dallas Mavericks, the trade presents a solution for their guard rotation while Kyrie Irving recovers from injury. Simmons pointed out that Coby White provides scoring and playmaking at the guard position, giving Dallas immediate depth in the backcourt. Meanwhile, the Warriors would gain a defensive presence in Daniel Gafford plus an expiring contract, providing salary flexibility and a potential short-term boost for the roster.
While this is currently just a proposal, the NBA world is already buzzing. Fans are speculating about the impact on all three teams. The Bulls, struggling for consistency and explosiveness on the wing, could see Kuminga inject youth, athleticism, and playmaking ability. For Golden State, the trade could free cap space while addressing defensive needs. And Dallas could stabilize its guard rotation without jeopardizing future flexibility.
Kuminga himself has been quiet publicly, focusing on his rehab and team activities, but the buzz surrounding his potential departure has made him one of the most talked-about players this trade season. Analysts note that while his talent is undeniable, the combination of injury concerns and team strategy could make him a key trade chip in the coming months.
As the February trade deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Warriors’ front office. Will they move Kuminga in a blockbuster deal that reshapes three teams — or will the rising star stay in Golden State, returning healthy to continue his ascent?
One thing is certain: Jonathan Kuminga is at the center of one of the NBA’s most intriguing trade narratives this season, and fans won’t have long to wait for the next chapter.
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