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The NBA has hit its quietest point of the calendar, but a few questions still surround some of its biggest markets—with most involving restricted free agents.
The Warriors are in a stalemate with Jonathan Kuminga, the 22-year-old they selected with the No. 7 pick in the 2021 draft. According to ESPN, Kuminga and his representatives are looking for a three-year, $82 million deal, which would cement him in the team’s long-term plans.
Golden State has reportedly offered him a two-year, $45 million contract that has a team option for the second year. That would be less total and annual money—but also make it easier for the Warriors to move on from the forward either in free agency or via trade.
Kuminga is reportedly even more interested in taking a $7.9 million qualifying offer that would make him an unrestricted free agent next year—giving him the ability to sign elsewhere. Very few restricted free agents accept the qualifying offer, generally signing long-term deals instead.
Chicago is also in a holding pattern with guard Josh Giddey, who was selected one pick before Kuminga in 2021. The Bulls offered Giddey a four-year, $80 million deal—$20 million annually—but he is seeking $30 million per year, according to NBA insider Jake Fischer.
Fischer also reported there is outside interest for Giddey, but the Bulls are “not eager to discuss such scenarios” with rival teams.
Two other notable restricted free agents are Sixers wing Quentin Grimes and Nets guard Cam Thomas.
The glaring issue for many of the restricted free agents is the lack of salary-cap space across the league. While they appear to be waiting to get their desired contracts, the limited options for their services across the league could prove advantageous for their teams.
Veteran Unrestricted Free Agents Remain
Golden State’s standoff with Kuminga has also stalled its pursuit of Al Horford, who many pundits have penciled in with the Warriors. The 39-year-old is reportedly still considering retirement, but he’d slot right into the minutes left by Kevon Looney, who signed with New Orleans.
Other veterans who are still without a home include Malcolm Brogdon, Russell Westbrook, Ben Simmons, and former Warriors guard Gary Payton II.
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