The Warriors took care of business on the court Thursday night, but the main story unfolded after the final horn. Jonathan Kuminga’s trade request earlier in the day hung over Chase Center, even as the Warriors pulled away late to beat the Knicks 126-113 on Jan. 15, 2026.
Jimmy Butler’s performance and his words ensured the conversation did not drift. Butler scored 32 points to lead the win, then stepped in front of reporters and addressed Kuminga’s future head-on. What he said, and how he said it, added fuel to growing belief around the league that Kuminga’s time in Golden State may be nearing its end.
Jimmy Butler’s Message Adds Clarity to Jonathan Kuminga Exit Talk
After the matchup vs. the Knicks, during his post-game press conference, Butler made it clear the locker room still stands with Kuminga, even as the issue with the organization grows more complicated.
“We love JK in this locker room. That’s not gonna change,” Butler said after the win. “I wish him the best here. I wish him the best wherever.”
The phrasing stood out. Butler did not promise resolution. He did not push optimism. He acknowledged uncertainty. Then JB expanded on his stance.
“Hey, hey, hey. It don’t got nothing to do with me,” Butler said on the broadcast. “I just want JK to be happy.”
Jimmy Butler on Jonathan Kuminga: “I wish him the best here. I wish him the best wherever.”
On a resolution: “Hey, hey, hey. It don’t got nothing to do with me. I just want JK to be happy.” pic.twitter.com/aIqSVItJtV
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 16, 2026
Kuminga requested a trade on January 15, the first day he became eligible to be moved under the two-year, $46.8 million contract he signed last summer. ESPN’s Shams Charania reported the request came immediately. Kuminga has not appeared in a game since late December and has been out of the rotation for 13 straight contests.
The frustration has built since early January. On Jan. 2, Kuminga ruled himself out with back soreness shortly before a game against Oklahoma City. Head coach Steve Kerr later said he had planned to use Kuminga that night.
Sources told ESPN that multiple key decision-makers inside the Warriors’ office believe a trade before the February 5 deadline offers the cleanest result. Kuminga’s contract includes a team option for next season, which makes him attractive to multiple teams.
Butler’s comments mattered because of timing and tone. He spoke after a win, after leading the team, and hours after the trade request surfaced. He offered support without denial. He offered respect without false certainty.
For the Warriors, the next few weeks will shape the roster. For Kuminga, change appears closer. Butler’s use of “wherever” may have said it all.
