NBA Rumors: Warriors, Jonathan Kuminga, Hornets, LaMelo Ball, Hawks

Warriors

Golden State is largely in a holding pattern, according to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, with one date looming larger than the rest.

Jonathan Kuminga becomes trade-eligible Jan. 15, and Marks suggests the Warriors’ priority should be exploring whether his $22.5 million salary can be flipped into a starting-caliber center or added frontcourt help.

Kuminga has been out of the rotation recently, registering DNPs in three straight games after opening the season as a starter. If no deal materializes, Marks notes Golden State could wait until the offseason, exercise Kuminga’s team option, and revisit the market then.

The Warriors are hard capped and sitting just below the second apron, limiting flexibility. Still, they control all of their own first-round picks from 2026 through 2032, giving the front office long-term leverage even if short-term options are narrow.

Hornets

Charlotte’s front office faces a more foundational question.

After a full season to evaluate the roster, Marks writes that the Hornets must decide whether they are comfortable continuing to build around LaMelo Ball. Ball’s scoring has dipped this season, though he is averaging a career-high 8.5 assists. Durability remains part of the conversation, as he has topped 47 games played just twice in his career.

The Hornets have not reached the playoffs with Ball on the roster, a reality that lingers as the organization weighs next steps. Charlotte is hard capped but sits well below the first apron and has a sizable exception available, providing some maneuverability.

Marks also points out the Hornets’ collection of future first-round picks, which could come into play depending on the direction they choose.

Hawks

Atlanta’s most immediate decision may not involve Trae Young at all.

Marks writes that while Young’s long-term future should always be monitored, the pressing question is what to do with Kristaps Porzingis’ $30.7 million expiring contract. Porzingis has appeared in just 13 games due to illness and knee soreness since being acquired from Boston.

The Hawks could allow the contract to expire and gain flexibility this summer, but Marks notes the alternative would be exploring trade scenarios before then. Atlanta is hard capped but sits below the first apron and has a mid-sized exception available.

With valuable future picks in hand, Atlanta’s approach may come down to timing more than urgency.