The Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings seem to be going round and round with this Jonathan Kuminga situation. It's been reported many times but remains true: the two sides can't come together on a deal that will send Kuminga to Sacramento and make Golden State happy.
The story experienced another wrinkle recently when Jason Anderson announced that the Kings have made both Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis "untouchable" in trade talks for Kuminga. In some ways, it makes sense. But in other ways, this approach is completely nonsensical when you look at the Kings' actions last season.
The Kings say they value Ellis, but they aren't using him enough
Last season, Ellis played in an impressive 80 games, starting in 28 of them. During that time, he averaged 8.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.5 assists across 24.4 minutes per game. In many ways, his third season was his best yet, and the Kings should think about him as part of their long-term future.
Ellis could be a very enticing trade asset and multiple teams would want to land him. He is the sort of player that could be a cornerstone to a franchise, and the Kings know it. They're smart to hold onto him and not include him in talks for Kuminga—but why aren't they using him more?
Sacramento claims that Ellis is untouchable, but they aren't treating him like that. Instead, they are giving up a lot of his minutes to other players and continually adding more point guards to the mix. For example, Ellis probably won't be starting next season if Zach LaVine is still in the lineup. And with Dennis Schroder and possibly Russell Westbrook coming to Sacramento? Ellis' chances of being a starter grow slimmer.
The biggest problem here is that Ellis' trade value might not ever be higher. He may not be playing as much as some fans wish, but he just had his best season ever and, as mentioned, numerous teams would love someone just like him. He could help craft a deep and reliable culture and chemistry, plus he's only 25 years old.
The Kings have someone special with Ellis, but if they aren't using him enough, why hold onto him? If they really do want Kuminga as much as they say they do, they should consider sending Ellis away. Or, better yet, keep him and actually give him the respect he deserves in 2025-26.