Jonathan Kuminga, Sam Merrill Become Trade Eligible This Week

The Golden State Warriors are approaching a pivotal juncture in their roster management, particularly concerning Jonathan Kuminga. As of Thursday, January 15, 2026, Kuminga officially becomes trade eligible, marking a significant moment for a player who has had a rocky season.

Having signed a lucrative two-year deal worth $46.5 million nearly three months ago, Kuminga’s trajectory has taken a downturn. Initially, he was a fixture in Golden State’s starting lineup, playing the first 12 games of the season. However, since that promising start, his role has diminished, leading to a concerning trend in his playing time. Sources indicate that Kuminga has been sidelined for numerous games, accumulating several “Did Not Play” (DNP) designations, with his last notable appearance being a mere 10 minutes on December 18 against the Los Angeles Clippers.

This decline is particularly striking for a player once celebrated as a cornerstone of the Warriors’ future. The shift in his status raises questions about the team’s direction and the potential for change. According to hoopswire.com, Kuminga’s situation is compounded by the contractual nuances of his recent signing. By opting to waive his one-year Bird rights, Kuminga has granted the Warriors the ability to trade him without requiring his consent.

Currently, Kuminga holds a salary of $22.5 million for the current season, with a team option valued at $24.3 million for the 2026-2027 season. This financial setup provides the Warriors with some trade flexibility; they can include up to four first-round picks in any potential deal. However, due to the team’s position above the first salary apron, they cannot take back more salary than they send out in any transaction. Thus, the Warriors’ maneuverability in the trade market is present but not limitless.

This week, Kuminga is not the only player becoming eligible for trades; he is joined by several others, including Sam Merrill, Davion Mitchell, Paul Reed, and Ryan Roll. As noted by hoopswire.com, this influx of trade-eligible players could lead to increased activity as teams assess their rosters and consider potential adjustments.

For the Warriors, the decision to move Kuminga is not simply about his contract; it is about evaluating the future of a franchise that has been in transition. With the team facing stiff competition in the Western Conference, any trades could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. The coming weeks may reveal whether Kuminga remains a member of the Warriors or if a new chapter in his career begins elsewhere.

As the trade eligibility window opens, all eyes will be on Golden State to see if they will capitalize on this opportunity to reshape their roster or if they will continue to invest in Kuminga’s development amidst a challenging season.