The Warriors need their next big superstar. Can Jonathan Kuminga step up to the occasion? Well, owner Joe Lacob certainly seems to think so. While he had the chance to upgrade the roster by adding Paul George or Lauri Markkanen this summer, Lacob made it clear that Kuminga was off-limits in any trade talks. Not having much else to offer, he failed in his pursuit of the two superstars. And now that the roster looks almost set for next season, Lacob is expected to pull off a $150 million move to secure JK’s future with the Warriors.

Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Kuminga is eligible to sign a five-year $224 million max rookie extension with the team. And while the Warriors might not be sure that he is a max-level player just yet, they are likely to keep him in the Bay Area with a deal roughly worth $150 million. That deal is in the same ballpark as the $131 million extension that the Timberwolves offered Jaden McDaniels last summer.

Playing the same position and having slightly better production than McDaniels last season, the expected offer for Kuminga makes perfect sense. Although his team missed the playoffs, Kuminga took a giant leap this past year, increasing his scoring average to 16.1 points. On top of that, he recorded nearly five rebounds per game and even displayed his defensive prowess on several occasions.

But he is expected to take an even bigger leap this season, more so because Lacob trusts in him. Yes, as per reports, both Clippers and Jazz were eyeing JK in exchange for PG and Lauri. But it was Lacob’s trust in the youngster that might be the reason why none of the two stars got traded to the Bay Area. And now the responsibility lies on Kuminga’s shoulders.

Breakout season incoming for Jonathan Kuminga?

Although the Warriors have an option to secure Kuminga in the coming months, they could also choose to wait another year and make the decision next summer when he becomes a restricted free agent. Maybe that would be a wiser choice as next season might prove the youngster’s true potential. However, Lacob seems to have complete faith in the forward as he said earlier this year, “He’s been fantastic. He’s just been tremendous. He’s a monster. If he continues to play like this, which I think he will and get better at 21 years old, his future is unlimited.”

So, if the Warriors decide to wait it out, next season could make or break Kuminga’s future with the team. If he exceeds expectations and becomes the star that everyone wants him to be, he will significantly increase his market value and could get the maximum extension he desires. On the other hand, an underwhelming season could lead to a lower-value contract. It looks like JK’s future lies in his own hands. Do you think he will be able to come through?

Before you go, do not forget to check out this crossover between BG12 and Georgia Bulldogs star Asia Avinger