Jonathan Kuminga is officially hitting the open market.
The Atlanta Hawks are declining Kuminga’s $24.3 million team option, making the former Warriors forward an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. The decision creates one of the more interesting situations of NBA free agency because Kuminga is still only 23 years old, extremely athletic, and talented enough for a team to talk itself into his upside.
For Atlanta, this move is not shocking. Kuminga was acquired from Golden State during the season in the Kristaps Porzingis trade, but he never became a clear long-term piece for the Hawks. Paying him more than $24 million next season would have been a huge commitment for a player still trying to prove he can be a consistent starter.
That does not mean Kuminga will struggle to find interest. His size, explosiveness, transition ability, and defensive tools still make him appealing. Teams always bet on wings with upside, and Kuminga fits that mold perfectly. The question is whether he can find the right situation, because his time with Golden State was full of flashes but never full trust.
With the Warriors, Kuminga showed real scoring ability, but his role often became a debate. He was part of Golden State’s 2022 championship team, but he later requested a trade due to reduced playing time before being sent to Atlanta.
Now, he gets something he has never truly had: control.
The Sacramento Kings are reportedly expected to be among the teams interested, which makes sense. Sacramento could use more athleticism and forward depth, and Kuminga would give them a young, explosive piece who can attack the rim and defend multiple positions.
For the Hawks, this is about flexibility. For Kuminga, this is about opportunity.
He is no longer just a former lottery pick waiting for minutes. He is a free agent with a chance to pick the best place for his career. If the right team believes in him, Kuminga could still become one of the better value signings of the offseason.
But this summer is now a prove-it moment. The talent has always been there. Now Kuminga has to show he can become more than just potential.
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