Jonathan Kuminga’s situation with the Golden State Warriors continues to feel uncertain, and that tension has now spilled over to the NBA fans — with general manager Mike Dunleavy becoming the main target.
Kuminga, looking for a clearer role and more consistent minutes, has reportedly asked for a trade ahead of the February 5 deadline. That request came even after the Warriors suffered a major blow, losing Jimmy Butler to a season-ending ACL tear. For many fans, that made the timing even more confusing.
Dunleavy, however, didn’t seem moved by the request.
When asked about Kuminga’s trade demand, the Warriors GM responded bluntly, saying, “In terms of demans, when you make a demand, there needs to be a demand.”
The comment, which suggested there isn’t much interest around the league for Kuminga, immediately set off debate online.
@C_Reilly5 joked, “dude talking big like he’s the ravens owner.”
dude talking big like he’s the ravens owner
— Chris Reilly (@C_Reilly5) January 21, 2026
@jbondwagon questioned the logic, asking, “Did he just say that there’s no trade demand for Jonathan Kuminga? Lol.”
Others were less sympathetic toward the player. @andrazz_ downplayed Kuminga’s value, saying, “Such a fuss about him but hes such a mid player.”
Amid all the noise, Kuminga may have helped his own case on the court. In Golden State’s 145-127 loss to the Houston Rockets on Tuesday, he finished with 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 assists — a reminder of the upside that continues to divide opinions.
“If he was so good, how come no other team is offering?”: NBA fans question former NBA player’s take on Jonathan Kuminga’s situation
The discussion grew louder after former NBA guard Austin Rivers weighed in on the situation during his podcast.
Rivers framed Kuminga’s issues with the Warriors as something deeper than basketball.
“This is a 20-point per game caliber player. I know this because he’s done it,” Rivers said. “He is a freak talent and athlete. How the hell can this guy not get a minute on a sorry a** Warriors team? It drives me crazy.”
That only added fuel to the debate.
@desi_ufo pushed back, writing, “If he was so good, how come no other team is offering anything beyond a box of cookies to trade for him?”
@BetLegend2025 sided with Rivers, saying, “Its absolutely personal and the whole situation is beyond disgraceful.”
Meanwhile, @goldenstateover took a shot at Rivers himself, adding, “the best version of austin rivers wouldn’t sniff playing time on this current warriors team btw.”
As the deadline approaches, Kuminga’s future remains unresolved — and the arguments around it aren’t slowing down anytime soon.
