SAN FRANCISCO — After hitting a 3-pointer against Indiana on Monday night, Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga kept the next offensive play alive by grabbing two offensive rebounds and missing a tip-in attempt among two Pacers before drawing a foul in the fourth quarter.
His teammate, Stephen Curry, immediately praised Kuminga’s effort, which is exactly what the Warriors and coach Steve Kerr believe they need to end their slump and be competitive. Following Kerr’s recent critiques about Kuminga’s decision-making and shot selection, the young forward responded with one of his most assertive performances of the season, scoring a game-high 26 points on 9 of 16 shooting, along with 8 rebounds and 4 assists. Even though Golden State lost 111-105 at Chase Center, Kuminga showcased the kind of force and secondary scoring presence that Curry and the team require.
“This is the JK we want,” Kerr remarked after the Warriors suffered their 10th loss in 13 games. “He was active in the paint, took care of the ball, made some nice passes, and played aggressively. It’s a great example of how he needs to perform. I’m really proud of him for coming out and playing this way… he’s improving, and it’s exciting to see his development.”
Following a win at Minnesota earlier in the week, Kerr highlighted the need for the young players to understand that contested shots early in the shot clock are not ideal, emphasizing ball movement for better opportunities with Curry on the floor.
Just over two weeks ago, Kerr named Kuminga the starting power forward as part of an effort to fully tap into his potential. Draymond Green also indicated he was okay with coming off the bench to give Kuminga a chance to shine, given that the franchise views him as a future star. However, after starting six games, Kuminga was moved back to the bench for the last three games, as Kerr realized the team needed a stronger defensive start, opting to start Green at power forward alongside Kevon Looney at center.
Kuminga had struggled in his recent outings, shooting 5-of-23 in two games prior to Monday’s match and scoring a total of just 22 points. Before the game, Kerr was asked if his comments about shot selection were aimed at Kuminga. He confirmed discussions with both Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski on this issue, emphasizing the need for Kuminga to improve decision-making.
“He’s excellent at attacking the rim and drawing fouls, so we want him to focus on that,” Kerr explained before the game. “There’s a right time for every shot, and he has the capability to create open looks for himself toward the end of the shot clock when necessary.”
As the No. 7 pick in the 2021 draft, Kuminga claims he’s mentally stronger in his fourth season and can adapt to his fluctuating role in the starting lineup.
“Sometimes I start, sometimes I don’t; it doesn’t affect me,” Kuminga stated. “At this stage of my career, I can’t get discouraged. I just go out there and do my job because worrying about it won’t help.”
Kuminga also expressed that he’s accustomed to the ups and downs. “From where I come from, you have to be mentally resilient. Many players in my position would struggle, but that doesn’t impact me. As long as I show up every day and play with my teammates’ support, I’m okay.”
The Warriors are eager to regain the rhythm that allowed them to start the season 12-3, as they head into a Christmas Day matchup with LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers after suffering 10 losses in their last 13 games. They hope Kuminga can replicate his Monday performance.
“He was probably our best player in terms of decisiveness and aggression,” Curry noted, despite his own off night, finishing with 10 points on 11 of 13 shooting. “Being decisive and aggressive lowers the chances of mistakes. Playing within the offense, making the most of what the defense gives you, and getting to the rim—those are things only he can bring to our team.”
“We love an energized, confident JK. He can make a significant impact for us, and stringing together a few more performances like this could elevate our overall play and give us the chance to win on any given night.”
