Rumors have linked the Sacramento Kings to Jonathan Kuminga throughout the offseason. Nothing has yet to come to fruition, but the Kings are still believed to be a possible landing destination for the Golden State Warriors forward. Law Murray of The Athletic recently addressed Kuminga's potential fit in Sacramento, via The Athletic NBA Daily.
"Keegan Murray is really good. Why is this team chasing Jonathan Kuminga," Murray said. "Why has that been a conversation in the chat for months? This team does not need another ball in hand guy with a complete lack of supporting skill."
Murray likely is not the first writer to question Keegan Murray's role with the Kings. Murray is indeed a good player -- yet Sacramento does not seem to be giving him enough of an opportunity to shine. Murray could end up becoming what the Kings seemingly believe Kuminga can be. The difference, of course, is that Murray is already in Sacramento while acquiring Kuminga would lead to picks/players being given up.
Would having both players on the roster make sense? The Kings could probably make it work, but the reality of the situation is that Sacramento does not necessarily need Jonathan Kuminga. Acquiring him would not be a bad move, as he is a respectable player with a high ceiling. However, Sacramento could address other areas on the roster instead of pursuing Kuminga.
Where do the Kings go from here?
The Kings were a true postseason contender just a few years ago. In 2024-25, however, they were eliminated in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Rumors of a potential rebuild are beginning to pick up steam as the Kings' current franchise direction is in question.
Sacramento needs to figure out what the plan is. If the Kings believe that their Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan-led roster has what it takes to win a championship, then they should go all in on the present. If the Kings think that change is needed, they must enter a rebuild. Hovering around the middle of the standings while not completely rebuilding but not competing is a disastrous place to be in.
The Kings have plenty of work to do. Murray's point about Kuminga certainly should not be ignored. Sacramento needs to carefully ponder the idea before going all in on a trade for Jonathan Kuminga. With training camp set to begin, the Kings' situation will be worth closely monitoring.