Is Steve Kerr Freezing Out Jonathan Kuminga at the Worst Possible Time?
There’s something simmering in the Bay, and it’s not just playoff intensity—it’s a potential rift between Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and one of Golden State’s brightest young talents, Jonathan Kuminga. With the postseason kicking off and the Warriors clawing for momentum, all eyes are now on a storyline that’s almost as gripping as the games themselves.
Kuminga’s absence in the Warriors’ last regular season game against the Clippers—and then again in their play-in victory over the Grizzlies—didn’t just raise eyebrows. It lit up an entire conversation about his role in the team’s immediate and long-term future. At 22, Kuminga has shown flashes of star potential, averaging 15.3 points per game this season. And yet, he’s now logging back-to-back DNPs when the stakes are at their highest. That’s not just strange—it’s telling.
Also Read:- Klay Thompson Returns Just in Time as Mavericks Fight for Play-In Survival
- PlayStation Plus Price Hike Hits Canada and Türkiye Amid Growing Gamer Frustration
Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard didn’t hold back when he speculated that Kerr simply might not see Kuminga as part of the main rotation anymore. He referenced Kerr’s own comments about the team playing better “a few weeks ago”—not-so-coincidentally, the time before Kuminga returned from injury. That quote hit like a cold splash of reality: there could be a deeper disconnect between coach and player.
And let’s not forget the stats. Since returning, Kuminga's production has dipped. His scoring is down, and his shooting from deep has been dismal—just 17.1% from three-point range. Kerr, who prioritizes spacing and ball movement, might not feel Kuminga fits the scheme right now. But here’s the catch: the Warriors are at a crossroads. This is not the time to let potential internal tension bubble over. They just traded for Jimmy Butler, aiming to make a serious push. Kuminga’s energy, athleticism, and ability to create mismatches could be crucial—especially in a series against a fast-paced, hungry Rockets team.
Draymond Green, always the vocal leader, believes Kuminga will contribute and has made it clear that his faith in the young forward hasn’t wavered. “He’ll be meaningful for us in that series,” Draymond said. “I have zero doubt about that.” But the final say rests with Kerr, and right now, it looks like he’s tightening the rotation without Kuminga in it.
The tension is undeniable. What was once a seemingly clear path to stardom for Kuminga has hit a strange fork in the road. A former No. 7 overall pick with a $10.24 million qualifying offer looming, his relationship with Kerr and his performance in the playoffs—if he even sees the floor—could decide whether the Warriors invest in him long-term or look to move on.
One thing’s for sure: if the Warriors struggle and Kuminga stays benched, this story will only get louder. And if he plays—and shines—it might force a rethinking of the entire rotation. Either way, this saga could shape the franchise’s future just as much as anything that happens on the court.
Read More:
0 Comments