David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Warriors’ Missed Jonathan Kuminga Trade Option From 2024 Revealed After Hawks Move

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Shivam Khatwani | Last updated Feb 11, 2026 6:07 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors’ split with Jonathan Kuminga continues to generate headlines after fresh details surface. And now, a missed opportunity from the 2024 NBA trade deadline has become the topic of discussion.

Following Kuminga’s move to the Atlanta Hawks on Feb. 4, reports revealed that Golden State had explored deals earlier that could have reshaped the roster. The revelations have added new context to the franchise’s long-running uncertainty surrounding the young forward’s role and long-term future.

During the 2023-24 season, Kuminga was still viewed internally as a high-upside talent and an important rotation option. As a result, negotiations involving him were complicated. Moreover, the Warriors were balancing two timelines, competing around veteran stars while also developing younger pieces. And that internal tension reportedly influenced how aggressively they approached trade talks.

Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) © Eakin Howard-Imagn Images

Warriors Hesitated on Alex Caruso Talks as Internal Views on Kuminga Differed

According to a report from ESPN's Anthony Slater, Golden State held discussions with the Chicago Bulls about a trade for defensive guard Alex Caruso in 2024. Some within the organization reportedly saw the potential deal as a prime opportunity to improve the roster’s defensive identity and depth. However, ownership had reservations about including Kuminga in packages. This led to a divided opinion on his long-term value.

“It’s also why, those sources believed, Lacob had a difficult time sending out Kuminga in potential trades," Slater wrote. "That included talks to land Alex Caruso from the Chicago Bulls at the 2024 trade deadline, viewed by some in the organization as the prime opportunity they should’ve pounced.”

The same report added that other team sources pushed back on the narrative, claiming Chicago was “finicky in late-stage negotiations” and emphasizing that Kuminga remained a major rotation piece at the time.

Those contrasting viewpoints highlight the uncertainty that surrounded Golden State’s direction during that stretch. With Kuminga moving to Atlanta, the decision not to finalize a 2024 deal stands as a significant what-if moment for the franchise.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: