This might turn out to be a major downgrade…
As the Golden State Warriors explore their options with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, growing rumors of a possible sign-and-trade involving the Miami Heat could spell trouble for the franchise.
While Miami is reportedly keen on acquiring Kuminga and has some attractive assets, speculation suggests the trade would bring Andrew Wiggins back to Golden State — a move that would likely be a step down in overall talent.
On the most recent episode of the Locked On Warriors podcast, host Matt Kolsky pitched a trade idea sending Kuminga and Moses Moody to Miami in return for Wiggins. “It would work monetarily,” he explained, but added that it would be “the wrong move” for the Warriors.
Though Wiggins remains a fan favorite and was a key contributor to the 2021-22 championship team, Golden State would need to extract more value in any deal involving Kuminga.
Wiggins Isn’t Enough in Return for Kuminga
Both the Heat and the Chicago Bulls have reportedly shown strong interest in Kuminga since the offseason began. While the Warriors still appear likely to re-sign him, those two teams remain the most probable landing spots if a trade occurs.
Should Miami fail to land Kevin Durant, as expected, they could shift their focus to a Kuminga sign-and-trade. However, Wiggins is probably their most viable trade asset in such a scenario.
Now 30, Wiggins enjoyed notable success with the Warriors, earning an All-Star nod and playing a vital role in their championship run. But his time with Golden State ended as part of the complicated, multi-team deal that brought Jimmy Butler to the Bay.
In the most recent season split between the Warriors and the Heat, Wiggins posted averages of 18 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists over 60 games. Still, even acquiring Wiggins alone — without Moody in the mix — would be a questionable move from a roster-building standpoint. While his defense would help, Wiggins doesn’t bring the offensive fluidity or playmaking Golden State currently needs on the wing.
Furthermore, his previous scoring role has largely been overtaken by Butler, and if Wiggins were to come off the bench, it’s unclear whether his production would justify his contract.
If the Warriors decide to move on from Kuminga, they must aim for a true difference-maker in return — even if it means packaging additional players. Anything less would fail to move the needle toward another championship run.
