Jonathan Kuminga seemed to have hit his stride with the Warriors at the start of the season, averaging 17.2 points and 7.1 rebounds over the first nine games while shooting 41.4% from beyond the arc. Coach Steve Kerr called him the team’s fourth full-time starter. However, in the last five games, Kuminga’s performance declined significantly, averaging just 9.6 points and 5 rebounds per game, shooting a poor 15.4% from three, and nearly matching his turnovers (2.7) with assists (2.8). This slump led Kerr to bench him, reawakening old tensions stemming from their difficult relationship, as reported by Anthony Slater on ESPN.
One team insider mentioned that Kuminga feels like a scapegoat once again. Kuminga had previously asked Kerr for tougher coaching, leading to a meeting in Sacramento before the ninth game where Kerr made an effort to be constructive, even calling Kuminga out during games against the Kings. Despite this, the team’s record fell from 4-1 to 6-6, and Kuminga’s knee issues began affecting his defensive energy and quickness to the basket. In a home game against the Pacers, he shot just 1-for-9 overall and missed all five three-point attempts, with the coaching staff attributing his reduced minutes (a season low of 20) to poor shot selection.
Adding to the uncertainty is the fact that Kuminga will become eligible for trade starting January 15, with the Warriors likely exploring trade options. His two-year, $46.8 million contract—containing a team option for the second year—is considered highly tradeable. A fresh start might benefit Kuminga, but if he struggles off the bench, the Warriors won’t get much return in a trade. Kuminga has missed the last four games due to knee tendonitis, during which the Warriors went 2-2 on their road trip.
Kerr is expected to give Kuminga another chance next month, as his athleticism could be a valuable asset, but Kuminga must improve his consistency and stay healthy to prove he deserves more opportunities in Golden State or to appeal to other teams. He needs to regain the form he showed in the season’s first nine games.
Fan Take: This situation highlights the delicate balance between talent and consistency in the NBA, and how injuries can derail even the most promising careers. Basketball fans should watch closely, as Kuminga’s development and potential trade could impact team dynamics and the broader league landscape.
