The handling of Jonathan Kuminga by the Golden State Warriors has drawn sharp criticism from former NBA stars DeMarcus Cousins and Isiah Thomas, who both weighed in publicly on the situation this week.
Speaking on Run It Back, Cousins questioned Golden State’s rationale for limiting Kuminga’s role while the team continues to struggle in the standings. “I think it’s a situation where they’re more so protecting the coach, protect that brand because obviously they’re not protecting Kuminga,” Cousins said.
Cousins pushed back on reports suggesting Kuminga is not a fit within the Warriors’ system, pointing to the team’s recent results. “This is a team that’s in losing situations. So players are playing. You telling me they better fit? Still losing games,” Cousins said.
He emphasized that Kuminga’s skill set requires usage and structure that Golden State is not currently providing. “Kuminga needs the ball. He needs plays. He needs actions. And it doesn’t fit what they’re doing right now currently,” Cousins said.
Cousins also highlighted the asset-management aspect of the decision-making, noting the financial and trade implications. “You’re losing games and also sacrificing your biggest trade asset. None of it makes sense,” he said.
Thomas focused on the mental toll of the situation, particularly for a young player in a contract-sensitive phase of his career. “That’s got to mess with your mind,” Thomas said. “You’re only as good as your confidence is.”
The Hall of Famer pointed to the unusual nature of Kuminga receiving multiple coach’s decision DNPs on a sub-.500 team. “You’re getting DNP on a team that’s below .500 sometimes. It’s a very strange, strange situation,” Thomas said.
Thomas credited Kuminga for maintaining professionalism despite the uncertainty. “I give Kuminga a lot of credit for not blowing up,” he said, adding that veteran guidance may be helping him navigate the moment.
In a separate comment, Thomas questioned whether restraint has worked against Kuminga’s interests. “Has being classy and professional hurt Jonathan Kuminga’s basketball career? Maybe he should raise a little hell,” Thomas said.
Kuminga, 23, has played just 10 total minutes over the past month and has not appeared in nine straight games, including seven DNPs by coach’s decision. He is averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists in 24.8 minutes per game this season.
The former seventh overall pick signed a two-year, $46.8 million extension in October and is widely expected to be traded once eligible. Sacramento and New Orleans have emerged as frequent suitors, while Golden State weighs offers as it sits eighth in the Western Conference.
