Don’t sleep on the bayou.
While most of the NBA world is focused on fireworks off the court this summer, sources tell me the New Orleans Pelicans are quietly, yet aggressively, exploring a way to land Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga via sign-and-trade. And yes — they’re trying to get creative with the math.
Here’s what I’m hearing: The Pelicans are actively trying to “work the numbers” on a sign-and-trade deal with Golden State. The goal? Get Kuminga paid, then circle back to finalize trade compensation after the ink dries on the new deal.
That part is key. They want to get the salary down first, then figure out the pieces.
The Pelicans are about $3.4M under the luxury tax threshold and could use Jordan Hawkins in a deal to free up cap space or bring in a wing, I’m hearing.
One scenario: sign a vet guard, then flip Hawkins for wing help.
Why Kuminga?
Look — if you’ve been watching the league, you know Kuminga’s not just another athlete. He’s that athlete. The 22-year-old averaged a tad under 16 points per game last season and has shown flashes of being a future All-Star when given the keys. His blend of size, bounce, and scoring punch would fit snugly next to Zion Williamson and the Pelicans’ emerging young core.
More importantly: Kuminga is built for pace, power, and playoff moments. That’s exactly what the Pelicans need if they want to go from play-in to prime time.
But here’s something under the radar: Kuminga’s potential transition to New Orleans could be smoothed by a familiar face — Kevon Looney.
Looney, Kuminga’s former Warriors teammate and locker room OG, has recently agreed to a deal with the Pelicans. Their relationship from Golden State could be a key off-court asset in helping Kuminga settle in and buy into the Pelicans’ culture early.
As one league source told me:
“Kuminga respects Looney. If he’s there, that’s a win for New Orleans beyond just basketball.”
The Cap Crunch & Creative Solutions
This isn’t an easy lift. Here’s what’s real:
Kuminga’s camp wants a big number, and deservedly so. Sources tell me the Pelicans are trying to walk the tightrope, get him signed, then creatively build a package that satisfies Golden State under CBA restrictions. Because of base-year compensation rules, the Warriors can’t take back the full salary amount in return if Kuminga is signed first.
So that means New Orleans needs to get surgical ; mix in movable salaries, young players, or even draft capital to make the deal palatable on both sides.
Don’t be surprised if names like Trey Murphy III, Herb Jones, or even future first-round picks get tossed around to balance out the ledger.
The Market is Heating Up
Make no mistake: the Pelicans aren’t alone in this. The Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and Sacramento Kings have also shown varying levels of interest in Kuminga. But sources tell me New Orleans has been one of the most proactive behind the scenes, with internal conversations dating back to before the NBA Draft.
There’s an urgency there. They believe Kuminga’s ceiling fits their competitive timeline.
And now? The Looney factor gives them another edge.
The Scoop B Breakdown
Let me break it down like this:
- If the Pelicans pull this off, they walk away with a young, athletic wing who can grow into a co-star next to Zion.
- If the Warriors lose Kuminga, it signals a true pivot toward Steph-Dray nostalgia or a full youth movement (again).
- If numbers can’t be worked, look for a third team to get involved. Because multiple execs I’ve spoken to say Kuminga won’t be in the Bay forever.
- And if you’re New Orleans? Pairing Kuminga with his old vet Looney might just unlock his next level.
Final Thought
The Pelicans aren’t usually the loudest team in the league. But don’t confuse quiet with complacent. The phones are ringing. The math is being crunched. And Kuminga? He might just be the missing piece that takes New Orleans from potential to power.
With Looney in the fold and Kuminga on their radar — this could be the most lowkey impactful pairing of the summer.
And trust me — the Warriors know it.
Stay tuned. More to come.
