The Golden State Warriors are still without injured young forward Jonathan Kuminga. Fans have no idea when to expect Kuminga’s return because the Warriors are still amidst this confusion as well. Golden State hoped for positive signs forward after the team doctors said the MRI on his knees came back clean and escaped the fear of a more severe injury.
However, ESPN reports that Kuminga is still not closer to a return due to him still feeling soreness to slow down his progress. The fear of structural damage being removed led to fans and management expecting Kuminga to take part in practice for a quick return. Kuminga feeling pain means they must wait until he’s ready and comfortable to play.
Head coach Steve Kerr expressed confusion over the situation during the weekend, and the reports put that into perspective. Kuminga could return in a couple of days if his body feels right, but it could also be a longer wait. Golden State is essentially relying on Kuminga feeling better as a huge part of their season’s plans to contend.
Warriors Might Lose Faith In Kuminga
The hot start to the season for Kuminga made it look like he was ready to be third top star on the roster behind Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. Unfortunately, Kuminga slowed down after a great first two weeks with equally lackluster play bringing down his stats. Kerr shocked everyone by moving Kuminga to the bench faster than expected.
Kuminga and Kerr have struggled to build a connection in the past, so this bold move felt like a bad sign for the young player. Kerr expressing his own confusion over Kuminga’s health adds more negative variables to the mix. Warriors fans will need Kuminga to return and contribute strongly to see him remain on the team.
The team is currently struggling to remain healthy and have been hit with the toughest schedule. Golden State has had the most back-to-back slates on the schedule so far to make Kuminga’s absence hurt stronger. Depth is badly needed right now, but Kuminga’s return date is completely unknown.
Could Golden State Trade Jonathan Kuminga?
The older ages of Curry, Butler, and Draymond Green make it more important for the Warriors to contend this season. Other teams with younger cores can afford to wait on their injured players and question marks. Golden State only has a few more chances to win another NBA Championship during the Curry era.
A player as young as Kuminga having flaws associated with him could easily lead to a trade. The Warriors reportedly wanted to work on a sign and trade in the offseason, but teams weren’t interested in offering things they desired. Kuminga’s hot start showed flashes of star power that could tempt more teams in need of a young prospect.
Golden State could get a valued starter, like Michael Porter Jr. or Nicolas Claxton, from the rebuilding Brooklyn Nets looking for youth. Other rebuilding teams like the Utah Jazz and Washington Wizards also have veterans that could tempt the Warriors. Kuminga must return quickly and play effectively or risk being moved at the trade deadline.
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