The Golden State Warriors have agreed to trade forward Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis.
The deal puts an end to a months long standoff between Kuminga and the organization who were at loggerheads over the 23 year old’s future with the organization. Currently playing on a 2 year, $46.8M contract, which features a club option for 2026-27, Kuminga had previously indicated that he would welcome a trade to the Warriors front office.
Currently averaging 12.1 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, Kuminga figures to see increased playing time in the Hawks rotation. Meanwhile, Buddy Hield will add some much needed range and bench depth to an Atlanta team that’s seen multiple changes to its roster over the last few months.
Porzingis’ addition to the Warriors lineup is an intriguing one, as it essentially shows that the team has given up their pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo. It’s also a calculated risk that shows the team believes their medical staff can keep the 30 year old healthy amidst his recent issues.
Officially labelled “postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome”, Porzingis has suited up for only 17 games thus far in 2025-26 after appearing in only 42 last year with Boston. When playing at 100%, the 7’2″ centre can be a difference maker on the court, as evidenced by his 2024 championship run with Boston. But how often he’ll be available down the stretch this year remains to be seen.
Currently slated to become a free agent at season’s end, Golden State could clear nearly $30M off their books if they choose not to re-sign him, so there’s a financial flexibility component to the deal as well. That may prove useful if Milwaukee opts not to trade Giannis, and hold off any potential deals until the offseason.
Up next for Golden State is a Thursday night clash with the Phoenix Suns, while the Hawks will play host to the Utah Jazz at 7:30pm ET.
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