The Suns are negotiating a sign-and-trade for Kuminga! The Warriors are seeking a first-round return, and the Kings and Bulls are also interested in acquiring him.

On July 18, Beijing time, NBA insider Jake Fischer reported that the Suns have expressed "tentative interest" in acquiring the Warriors' restricted free agent Kuminga through a sign-and-trade.

After buying out Beal and utilizing the stretch provision to gain some salary flexibility, the Suns have contacted Kuminga's agent and the Warriors to discuss the potential for a trade. However, despite the buyout of Beal, the Suns' salary is still below the second luxury tax threshold, but they face significant obstacles in completing a trade for Kuminga.

Fischer noted that the Warriors hope to receive some level of first-round draft compensation in any trade involving Kuminga, while the Suns lack draft assets. Additionally, it seems that there are no players on the Suns' current roster that would pique the interest of the Warriors' management. In fact, the Suns' interest in Kuminga dates back to the trade deadline in February when the Warriors sought potential trades involving Durant.

Kuminga still has a chance to remain with the Warriors, but it would require concessions from one of the parties. According to Fischer, this month, Kuminga's agent Allen Turner has had multiple discussions with Warriors officials in Las Vegas, trying to secure a contract for Kuminga with an average annual salary of at least $25 million, even if it’s just a short-term deal. However, the Warriors have been unwilling to meet this asking price.

As for other potential landing spots for Kuminga, the Kings seem to show the most interest, and the Bulls are also willing. Kuminga's team hopes to reach a sign-and-trade agreement with the Bulls. However, this idea has yet to materialize, as the Bulls are still struggling with how to re-sign their restricted free agent, starting point guard Giddey.

NBA writer Sam Esfandiari also expressed his views on the Warriors and Kuminga: "The market values Kuminga at around $20 million, but he does not accept this valuation. Similarly, the Warriors do not accept this price in trades. This situation has persisted for over a year and remains unchanged. Both sides seem to be stubbornly holding their ground."

Last season, Kuminga played 47 regular-season games for the Warriors, averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists, and appeared in 8 playoff games, averaging 15.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.3 assists.