The Warriors keep stacking wins, but Jonathan Kuminga’s situation refuses to fade into the background. He has not played in weeks, his role has gone quiet, and the trade deadline keeps creeping closer. Now, Stephen Curry finally spoke about it publicly, and while he stayed measured, his words did not bring closure.
Steph spoke after the Warriors’ 126–113 win over the N.Y Knicks at Chase Center. The matchup itself followed a familiar script. The postgame questions did not. With JK out of the rotation since mid-December, Curry’s comments landed differently. They came from the face of the franchise, not from rumor or front-office silence.
Stephen Curry on Jonathan Kuminga and the Trade Chatter
Curry addressed reporters in the locker room following Thursday night’s win and made one thing clear right away. The situation has not shaken the team’s focus or energy.
“It’s not a distraction at all. It’s a very unique situation,” Curry said after the game on. “Our job is to keep playing, keep winning. It’ll resolve itself one way or the other.”
Steph Curry on the persistent Jonathan Kuminga trade chatter: “It’s not a distraction at all. It’s a very unique situation. Our job is to keep playing, keep winning. It’ll resolve itself one way or the other.” pic.twitter.com/dQXD0EQqLb
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 16, 2026
That last sentence mattered. Curry did not promise a reunion. He did not hint at a long-term plan. He acknowledged uncertainty and left it there.
JK has not appeared in a game since Dec 18. He has been out of the rotation for 14 straight games and 17 of the last 18. While he has been listed as injured for parts of the season, the extended absence has only added fuel to reports that he wants a fresh start elsewhere.
The 23-year-old has played in just 18 games this season, starting 13 of them. He totaled 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. Picked seventh overall in 2021, JK has flashed upside every year, but his role under Kerr has never fully settled.
Back on September 30, 2025, the player signed a two-year deal worth up to $46.5 million, should Golden State choose to extend it into 2026–27. Lately, all eyes have turned toward that clause as the February trade window draws near.
Kerr confirmed earlier on January 16 that he spoke privately with Kuminga during morning shootaround. He said there are no issues between them and called the situation difficult but part of the league.
Inside the locker room, support remains steady. Jimmy Butler said after the Knicks game that the team still stands with Kuminga no matter what comes next. Curry’s message tied it all together. The Warriors are focused on wins. Kuminga stays professional. The clock keeps moving. One way or the other, the story is not finished yet.
