The Minnesota Timberwolves have agreed to terms with power forward Jonathan Kuminga on a two-year, $12.4 million NBA contract. The deal, confirmed on Wednesday, gives the Wolves a needed frontcourt piece as they try to move past a tough stretch that included a 109-139 loss to the San Antonio Spurs on May 16, 2026.
What is the deal for Jonathan Kuminga?
A person with knowledge of the agreement told The Associated Press about the contract. That person spoke on condition of anonymity because the team had not made an official announcement. ESPN added that Kuminga's contract includes a player option for the second season. This means the seventh overall pick from the 2021 draft could become a free agent next summer if he chooses.
Kuminga averaged a career-best 16.1 points during the 2023-24 season for the Golden State Warriors. He is a 50.2% shooter from the floor. In 278 career NBA games, he has put up 12.5 points in 22.1 minutes per game.
Why did the Timberwolves need this signing?
The move addresses an obvious hole in the Wolves' frontcourt. Minnesota traded away Julius Randle and Naz Reid earlier this offseason as part of their acquisition of point guard LaMelo Ball. Kuminga, who will turn 24 on October 6, steps in to fill that void with his athleticism and scoring potential.
His arrival comes at a time when the team is seeking stability. Their recent form shows one win and four losses in their last five games, including consecutive defeats. You can track their progress on our [standings](/standings) page.
What happened in Golden State?
Kuminga's time with the Warriors ended with him out of the rotation. He fell out of favor with head coach Steve Kerr last season, making a trade inevitable. The Congo native played in only seven of his final 38 games with Golden State before they sent him to the Atlanta Hawks in February.
He never found a consistent role with the team that drafted him. This trade to Minnesota represents a critical fresh start for the young forward.
How does Kuminga fit with the Timberwolves?
He joins a hungry Wolves team built around superstar Anthony Edwards and new point guard LaMelo Ball. The challenge for the coaching staff will be finding enough shots for Kuminga and fellow forward Jaden McDaniels within that offensive structure.
Kuminga's ability to attack the rim and finish in the paint should complement the perimeter games of Edwards and Ball. His defensive versatility could also be a major asset. For full details on the team's roster construction, visit our [squad](/squad) page.
This signing is a low-risk, high-reward move for Minnesota. They get a talented former lottery pick who is motivated to prove himself after a rocky exit from Golden State. If he thrives, the Wolves add another dynamic piece to their core. If not, the contract is short and manageable.
The team's immediate focus will be integrating him into their system ahead of the new season. Fans will be watching closely to see if this fresh start unlocks Kuminga's full potential.
