Why Buddy Hield Is Emerging in Kuminga Trade Talks

Jonathan Kuminga remains central to Warriors trade talk, but Buddy Hield‘s inclusion reveals the logic behind potential deal frameworks.

Kuminga becomes trade-eligible on January 15, and while his name has dominated Golden State’s trade discussions throughout the season, what is starting to stand out more is Hield’s growing involvement. DubNation has grown accustomed to the ongoing Kuminga speculation, but Hield’s inclusion adds new context. His presence isn’t about star power or headline value; it’s simply structure. Trading the duo could help the Warriors reshape their roster rather than force a complete reset.

Why Buddy Hield Is Emerging in Kuminga Trade Talks

Kuminga is the Main Trade Asset

Kuminga has always been projected as the potential cornerstone for the Warriors franchise, with the expectation that he could eventually help carry the franchise forward as Stephen Curry’s career in the Bay slowly winds down. However, since the season began, that long-term vision has been increasingly uncertain. Despite receiving a two-year contract extension in the offseason and Steve Kerr even using him as a consistent starter for 13 games, his role has shifted massively after many inconsistent performances.

The Warriors’ win-now structure does not see Kuminga as part of it. And that’s okay, because many teams are still interested in the 23-year-old forward. The Lakers shockingly just put in a request, but the likely outcome right now is a trade to the Kings, and if the Nets have interest in DeMar DeRozan or Malik Monk, then expect a very likely three-team trade between Golden State, Sacramento, and Brooklyn.

Right now, Kuminga represents the Warriors’ most valuable trade asset, a player whose perceived future value may be greater to another team than it currently is to them.

Why Buddy Hield is Included

Hield’s inclusion, in a way, makes the Kuminga deal easier to construct. While his last season and a half with the Warriors has been underwhelming, averaging just 10 points per game, Hield brings a clearly defined skill set. His perimeter shooting holds immediate value for teams looking to compete.

For Golden State, parting ways with the wing duo represents an attempt to remain competitive this season. Production is in constant demand at the shooting guard spot, and the Warriors lack the depth to compete with the Western Conference’s elite. With Curry still carrying the Warriors in his 17th season, inconsistencies in two key roles are risks they cannot afford.

Packaging Kuminga and Hield together also helps balance future potential with present-day impact. Kuminga offers upside and long-term appeal while Hield provides immediate value. That combination looks attractive to opposing teams. At 33, Hield isn’t a long-term piece, meaning it’s easier to include him in deals so the Warriors can adjust their roster without starting over.

That context helps explain why Hield continues to appear alongside Kuminga in trade discussions, rather than as a separate piece.

What it Means for the Warriors

Golden State needs results right now, and Curry needs as much support as possible. Involving both Kuminga and Hield in potential trade packages signals urgency rather than patience, prioritizing immediate production.

If a Kuminga-led deal were to return a scorer in the mold of Michael Porter Jr, one averaging 26 points per game while shooting 40% from three, it would reflect a clear commitment to maximizing Curry’s window.