Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga is facing early-season challenges as the Warriors navigate a 9–8 start. Sources told ESPN’s Anthony Slater that Kuminga feels “like the scapegoat again” after a string of losses and a shift from starter to bench role.
Kuminga’s turnovers increased while his shooting efficiency dipped, prompting coach Steve Kerr to reduce his minutes. The forward’s knee soreness also limited his burst to the rim, contributing to a season-low 20 minutes against the Pacers, where he shot 1-of-9 and missed all five three-point attempts.
Stephen Curry’s return from illness coincided with a three-game winning streak, further highlighting Kuminga’s struggles. Curry scored 46 and 49 points in back-to-back games against San Antonio, while Kuminga’s presence faded due to injury and form.
Despite offensive struggles, Kuminga contributed eight rebounds in the Pacers game, demonstrating impact beyond scoring. Jimmy Butler emphasized that players must balance ambition with patience, noting Kuminga has star potential but needs resilience during slumps.
The Warriors’ rotation experiments reflect broader challenges in maintaining consistency. Green, Butler, and Curry have carried the team, but integrating Kuminga while managing his development and health remains a delicate process.
Kuminga reportedly sought tougher coaching, leading to constructive in-game discussions with Kerr, including a pregame meeting in Sacramento. However, results have remained inconsistent, leaving questions about his long-term fit with the Warriors.
