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Steve Kerr’s Jonathan Kuminga comments hint at more tension, he might continue to struggle for minutes
Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

Jonathan Kuminga’s stalemate with the Golden State Warriors dragged on throughout the offseason.

The Golden State Warriors made several offers to Jonathan Kuminga, but the former seventh overall pick rejected them all.

However, Kuminga eventually agreed to a two-year, $48.5 million deal with the Warriors ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season. It surprisingly includes a team option, which Kuminga’s camp was heavily against.

While the two sides have managed to settle their differences, it feels like head coach Steve Kerr hasn’t forgiven Kuminga for his actions this summer.

Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images

Steve Kerr’s honest thoughts on Jonathan Kuminga’s saga with the Golden State Warriors

Coach Kerr has played a key role in Kuminga’s stalemate with the Warriors. Many have even called out Kerr over his treatment of Kuminga.

But with the deal now signed, how does Kerr feel about the saga that dragged on throughout the summer?

“This is the business we’re in. I never begrudge any player for trying to get the best contract that he can. In fact, having been a player, I always feel like it’s part of my job to help our guys do the best they can.

“Come contract-wise and help them become the best players that they can be. Put themselves in the best position to have a great career. To sign a good contract,” Kerr said, via Anthony Slater.

He added: “These are short careers. I want all our players to do well. How it gets there sometimes can be messy. I’m not worried about any of that.”

It’s surprising that Kerr managed to maintain a neutral stance on a chaotic summer between Kuminga and the Warriors. After all, that one negotiation held back the Dubs from making other offseason additions.

Steve Kerr says Jonathan Kuminga’s new contract is ‘not a big deal’

Over the course of his tenure with the Warriors, Kerr has had several superstars on his roster. Be it Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, or Kevin Durant.

Keeping that in mind, Kerr doesn’t feel that Kuminga finalizing his contract is a big deal for the Warriors ahead of the upcoming season.

“We have been through a lot bigger deals than this. I don’t think this is that big of a deal. This is business. Contract disputes happen all the time in sports,” Kerr stated.

Kuminga may have agreed to a deal for now, but the rumor mill still believes that the 22-year-old wants a move away from the team.

For that to become a reality, Kuminga must do two things. Otherwise, the Dubs will have an advantage over Kuminga’s future.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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