Warriors’ Offseason Moves: Norman Powell Trade and Kuminga’s Contract Talks
The Golden State Warriors are already making waves with their offseason plans, and all eyes are on a potential blockbuster move.
After the Jimmy Butler trade revitalized their season, Bleacher Report’s salary cap expert Eric Pincus predicts the Warriors will target Los Angeles Clippers‘ breakout star Norman Powell.
Why Powell?
At 31, Powell has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, stepping up in the absence of Paul George and Kawhi Leonard’s early-season injury. This season, he’s averaging a career-high 23.4 points per game, along with a stunning 3.2 three-pointers per game at a 42.2% clip.
A 10-year NBA veteran, Powell's sharpshooting and offensive firepower make him a perfect fit for the Warriors’ high-octane system.
The Trade Scenario
Powell, who’s entering the final year of his $90 million contract, could be a prime target for Golden State.
According to Pincus, the Warriors’ trade baits this offseason are Buddy Hield ($9.2 million) Brandin Podziemski ($3.2 million) and Jonathan Kuminga (sign-and-trade).
While Kuminga’s future remains a hot topic, the Warriors weigh whether to extend his contract or explore trade options to avoid salary cap constraints. If negotiations stall, Powell could become the centerpiece of a game-changing deal.
Kuminga’s Return
Jonathan Kuminga’s comeback after missing 32 games delivered a mixed bag of results.
In his first game back on March 13, Kuminga showed flashes of brilliance, contributing 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting off the bench to help the Warriors secure a dominant 130-104 victory over the Sacramento Kings.
“I love that my man came out there aggressive, putting the ball in the basket, high energy, jumping out the gym and dunking the basketball,” Jimmy Butler said of Kuminga after their first game together. “I want him to be him to the best of his abilities, continually be great and help this squad achieve something special.”
However, Kuminga’s offense took a step back in the Warriors’ gritty 97-94 win over the New York Knicks on March 15, a playoff-intensity showdown. He managed 10 points on 3-of-8 shooting but contributed with 5 assists, 5 rebounds, and a block to offset his struggles.
With the Warriors thriving post-Jimmy Butler trade, Kuminga is working to find his rhythm in the new system.
To justify the $35 million annual salary he sought in last off-season’s extension talks, he’ll need to prove his consistency before hitting restricted free agency.
Image - Kyle Terada-Imagn
