The Golden State Warriors have expressed interest in acquiring Pascal Siakam from the Toronto Raptors, but they are reluctant to part ways with Jonathan Kuminga, as revealed by NBA insider Michael Grange of Sportsnet.
Kuminga, seen as a potential star player with the ability to contribute both in the present and future, holds a significant role in the Warriors’ strategy. Despite the interest in Siakam, the Warriors are hesitant to trade Kuminga, particularly due to his close relationship with team owner Joe Lacob, who has a history of being cautious about parting with young talent.
Selected with the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Kuminga has showcased his skills, averaging 12.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.3 blocks this season. Siakam, a two-time All-Star, is averaging 22.1 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.0 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks, with his contract set to make him an unrestricted free agent in the upcoming summer.
There are reports from NBA insiders Shams Charania and Anthony Slater of The Athletic stating that Kuminga has lost faith in Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. Kuminga, currently earning $6 million this season, contrasts with Siakam’s salary of $37.9 million. It’s worth noting that any team acquiring Siakam during this season can only offer him a two-year extension.
