Image Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

Warriors Explore Nikola Vucevic Deal Amid Bulls’ Push for Jonathan Kuminga

Bulls target Kuminga with an eye to offload Vucevic to the Golden State

Image Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

The Golden State Warriors are looking at a major offseason to improve both their offense and defense. The front office is considering leveraging out-of-favor Jonathan Kuminga in future trades with a sign and trade approach.

The latest name in the rumor mill for the Warriors is Chicago Bulls’ Nikola Vucevic. The seven-time NBA champions have pursued Vucevic for months, nearly sealing a deal earlier this year. However, the Bulls’ steep demands derailed negotiations earlier this year.

With the Chicago side now looking to launch a revamp, they are desperately looking to offload Vucevic’s $20 million contract. According to ESPN, the Bulls see Jonathan Kuminga as a landing spot, perhaps sending Nikola Vucevic the other way.

If the Bulls sign Jonathan Kuminga this summer, they could have one of the most talented young lineups in the league.

PG: Giddey (age 22)
SG: White (age 25)
SF: Buzelis (age 20)
PF: Kuminga (age 22)
C: Queen (age 20) pic.twitter.com/Vr9vz3M3Yw
— Die-Hard Chicago Bulls Fans (@DieHardCBfans) May 15, 2025

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At 34, Vucevic continues to deliver, averaging 18.5 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 3.5 assists on 53% shooting this season. This is something the Warriors have lacked in the postseason. Someone who can act as that third man and do the job offensively as well.

The Montenegrin veteran remains one of the league’s most reliable rebounders, a trait the Warriors sorely lacked before. Their lack of receiving secondary balls has been one of the biggest headaches, especially in the Playoffs series against the Houston Rockets and Minnesota Timberwolves.

Vucevic’s Salary Threatens Warriors Roster Balance

However, Nikola Vucevic’s $20 million contract could serve as a problem for the Golden State. They already have a packed roster in terms of finances, especially with the arrival of Jimmy Butler. Adding another big contract could very well put them above the luxury tax hard cap. This would limit Warriors’ capability to strengthen the other areas.

Without Steph Curry, the Warriors struggled to remain competitive, exposing their depth issues and lack of a reliable secondary scorer. Which is why the front office must look at bringing a backup for the NBA legend as well. Steve Kerr reportedly also wants a versatile wing to replace Kuminga, especially given Hield’s inconsistent shooting and spacing ability.