Draymond Green lauded Jonathan Kuminga’s attitude and maturity following the Warriors’ 126-113 victory over the New York Knicks at Chase Center on Thursday. “He’s dealing with it better than probably I would… at 23 years old, I tip my hat to him because he stayed engaged. He’s in here working out every day. His attitude is the same every day. He comes in with a smile,” Green said.
The veteran forward described Kuminga as highly team-oriented. “He almost talks too much on the bench, and that is a compliment in itself… He doesn’t have an ‘it’s me’ attitude. He comes in, he’s about the team,” Green added.
Green emphasized that Kuminga’s response to a complex situation will define his future. “The way he reacted in response to this will not only carry the rest of his basketball career, but his demeanor will carry him the rest of his life,” he said.
Discussing Kuminga’s readiness amid trade speculation, Green said, “Whether he’s here past the deadline or whether he’s moved past the deadline, one thing’s for certain: he’ll be in shape and he’ll be ready. He brings a great attitude… one of the best young guys I’ve been around.”
Green highlighted Kuminga’s early-career challenges, including signing a large contract and navigating limited playing time. “When you sign a big contract with the team that drafted you, things are looking up and then it doesn’t… who can do something about it is him, and the way he handled himself, he’s standing ready,” he said.
On the court, Golden State was led by Jimmy Butler, who scored 32 points and grabbed eight rebounds, and Stephen Curry, who added 27 points with seven assists. Moses Moody contributed 21 points, including seven 3-pointers, while Brandin Podziemski added 19. The Knicks were paced by Miles McBride and OG Anunoby with 25 points each and Mikal Bridges with 21, while Karl-Anthony Towns recorded 20 rebounds.
The Warriors, now 22-19, have won 10 of their last 14 games, moving closer to the playoff race in the Western Conference, while New York falls to 25-15. Both teams return to action Saturday, with Golden State hosting Charlotte and the Knicks facing Phoenix.
