Jonathan Kuminga's future with the Golden State Warriors is getting more uncertain as he reportedly falls out of favor with coach Steve Kerr.

Following an encouraging stint earlier this season, the Congolese forward has been absent in the last three games, setting tongues wagging that a rumored trade is imminent come the offseason.

Brooklyn Nets Could Be Kuminga's No.1 Suitor

Marc SteinNBA Trade Rumors: Jonathan Kuminga Could Go to Brooklyn Marc SteinNBA Trade Rumors: Jonathan Kuminga Could Go to Brooklyn
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Brooklyn Nets may be a legitimate pursuit for Kuminga if he leaves the Warriors, says NBA insider Marc Stein on Substack. The Warriors have been keeping tabs on Brooklyn because of the team's huge projected cap room this offseason.

"Brooklyn's true level of interest remains to be seen, but Kuminga could not come to terms with Golden State last fall when he was seeking a contract higher than the $30 million in average annual salary that went to fellow Class of 2021 first-round draftees Jalen Suggs (Orlando) and Jalen Johnson (Atlanta)," Stein wrote.

The Nets are the sole team projected to have $40 million in open salary cap room this offseason, and thus a force to be reckoned with in free agency. That is money that they could use to make a legitimate offer or even attempt to do a sign-and-trade for the athletic forward.

What intensified the rumor is Cam Johnson's next destination. In our previous report, Brooklyn wanted a high asking price for him, but this could mean that other teams might take the bait.

Kuminga's Contract Impasse and Possible Sign-and-Trade

According to NBC Sports, the 22-year-old Kuminga was looking for a max extension last fall, presumably wanting a contract in the vein of those secured by Jalen Suggs and Jalen Johnson. Talks did not work out, however, and neither side agreed by the October deadline.

With Kuminga being a restricted free agent, the Warriors can match any contract offered to him. But with minimal cap space available and their goal of staying a contender, Golden State may choose a sign-and-trade to prevent losing him for free, particularly if Kuminga gets a big offer elsewhere.

Kuminga is a huge help when Jimmy Butler is out on the court. However, Kerr will prioritize Jimmy over Jonathan, especially now that the Warriors need to get past the Houston Rockets in the first round of the playoffs.

Overall, Kuminga played in 47 games this season, averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, 2.2 assists per game, and 45.4% shooting in 24.3 minutes.

If he decides to play in Game 2, we could see if he deserves to stay in the Bay Area.