Breaking Trade February 5, 2026 5 min read

KRISTAPS PORZINGIS TRADED TO GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS FOR KUMINGA AND HIELD

In a stunning last-minute deadline move, the Atlanta Hawks send their All-Star big man to Golden State in exchange for Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield.

Kristaps Porzingis Golden State Warriors

In one of the most shocking moves of the 2026 trade deadline, the Boston Celtics have traded All-Star center Kristaps Porzingis to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for forward Jonathan Kuminga and sharpshooter Buddy Hield. The deal was finalized just minutes before the 3 PM EST deadline, sending shockwaves through the NBA landscape.

THE TRADE PACKAGE

ATLANTA HAWKS RECEIVE

  • Jonathan Kuminga (F)
  • Buddy Hield (G)

GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS RECEIVE

  • Kristaps Porzingis (C)

The trade represents a significant shift in philosophy for both franchises. Atlanta acquires a young, athletic forward in Kuminga along with elite shooting from Hield, while Golden State adds a proven All-Star big man to bolster their frontcourt depth following Jimmy Butler's season-ending injury.

"We believe this move gives us the best chance to compete for a championship right now. Kristaps is an elite two-way player who can stretch the floor and protect the rim."

— Mike Dunleavy Jr., Warriors General Manager

WARRIORS' WIN-NOW MENTALITY

The acquisition of Porzingis signals Golden State's commitment to maximizing Stephen Curry's remaining championship window. At 7'3", Porzingis brings a unique skill set that few players in the NBA possess – the ability to protect the rim on defense while stretching the floor with his three-point shooting on offense.

"This is about winning championships," said Warriors head coach Steve Kerr. "Steph is still playing at an elite level, and Kristaps gives us another dimension that we've been missing. He can play alongside Draymond or as our primary rim protector when Draymond sits."

PORZINGIS' SEASON STATS

20.1
Points Per Game
7.2
Rebounds Per Game
1.9
Blocks Per Game
38%
3-Point %

ATLANTA'S REBUILD STRATEGY

For the Hawks, this trade represents a pivot toward youth and athleticism. Jonathan Kuminga, 23, is one of the most promising young forwards in the NBA, with elite defensive potential and rapidly improving offensive skills. Buddy Hield adds much-needed perimeter shooting to complement Atlanta's core.

"Jonathan has All-Star potential, and Buddy is one of the best shooters in the league," said Hawks general manager Landry Fields. "We love what Kristaps brought to our team, but this deal makes us younger, more athletic, and gives us more financial flexibility moving forward."

PLAYER PROFILES

JONATHAN KUMINGA

Age: 23 | Position: Forward | Height: 6'7"

Averaging 16.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 2.3 APG this season. Known for his explosive athleticism and defensive versatility.

BUDDY HIELD

Age: 31 | Position: Guard | Height: 6'4"

Averaging 12.4 PPG on 42% from three-point range. One of the most prolific three-point shooters in NBA history.

KRISTAPS PORZINGIS

Age: 30 | Position: Center | Height: 7'3"

All-Star big man averaging 20.1 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and 1.9 BPG. Elite rim protector and floor spacer.

IMMEDIATE IMPACT

Both teams expect their new acquisitions to make immediate contributions. Porzingis is expected to make his Warriors debut as early as this weekend against the Los Angeles Lakers, where he'll be paired with Curry and Draymond Green in the starting lineup.

Meanwhile, Kuminga and Hield will join a Hawks team looking to make a playoff push in the competitive Eastern Conference. The addition of Kuminga's youth and athleticism alongside Hield's shooting should provide immediate benefits on both ends of the floor.

"This is an exciting opportunity to join a winning culture in Atlanta. I'm ready to help this team compete at the highest level."

— Jonathan Kuminga

LEAGUE-WIDE REACTIONS

The trade has sent shockwaves throughout the NBA, with analysts and executives praising both teams for making bold moves. Many believe the Warriors have positioned themselves as legitimate title contenders, while the Hawks have set themselves up for long-term success.

"This is a win-win trade," said ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski. "Golden State gets a proven All-Star to help Steph chase another ring, and Atlanta gets younger and more athletic while maintaining their competitive window. Both teams should be better after this deal."

NBA News Team

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