Warriors pick up contract options on Kuminga, Moody

Golden State is relying on both third-year players to contribute to a veteran-laden team this season and next.

The Warriors made two moves Tuesday looking ahead to next season, exercising fourth-year options on the rookie contracts of Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody.

Kuminga, 21, was the subject of significant hype this preseason as he seeks to translate his high-level athleticism into production on the court after a frustrating second year in the NBA. He already raised some eyebrows during last week’s season opener when coach Steve Kerr stuck with him over Andrew Wiggins in the closing minutes of the Warriors’ win over the Suns. The former No. 7 overall pick is a key piece of the Warriors’ future plans at the power forward spot as Draymond Green continues to age.

Moody, 21, started and scored 13 points in Monday night’s win over the Pelicans in New Orleans and has been a valuable depth role player on the wing for the Warriors since they drafted him 14th overall out of Arkansas in 2021.

Both were bench contributors to the Warriors’ 2022 title run, then Moody took on a bigger role in the playoffs last season while Kuminga saw less playing time as Golden State was eliminated by the Lakers in the second round.

Players who can contribute on relatively inexpensive rookie contracts are only going to become more vital to NBA success under the new collective bargaining agreement, which will introduce more severe restrictions on high-spending teams beginning next season.

Both Kuminga and Moody are now scheduled for restricted free agency in the summer of 2024. Kuminga will make $7.6 million next season via the fourth-year option, while Moody will make $5.8 million.