Warriors’ Surprise Lineup Change Gives Kuminga His Big Break

Jonathan Kuminga will finally get his chance to showcase his talent when the Golden State Warriors take on the Los Angeles Lakers in Sunday’s preseason game without four of their regular starters.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr confirmed that Stephen Curry will sit out due to minor soreness, joining Jimmy Butler, Al Horford and Moses Moody on the inactive list.

“Kerr says Steph is out tomorrow vs. Lakers. Kerr says he’s a little banged up, but Warriors aren’t worried. Warriors expect him to play Tuesday in Portland,” The Athletic’s Nick Friedell reported on X.

According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, Kuminga will start alongside Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Draymond Green and Quinten Post. For the 23-year-old forward, it’s a long-awaited opportunity to play a featured role — at least for one night.

A Chance to Prove Himself to Warriors

Kuminga’s role in Golden State has been one of the most polarizing storylines of the Warriors’ recent seasons. His blend of athleticism, power, and untapped offensive potential has intrigued fans but left the coaching staff struggling to find consistency.

After a summer of tension and uncertainty, Kuminga signed a two-year, $48.5 million contract to stay with the team — a deal that includes a team option, underscoring the delicate balance between commitment and flexibility.

Through two preseason games, Kuminga has come off the bench, averaging 4.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.0 block in 17.5 minutes per game. His offensive aggression — a key factor in his breakout playoff performance against the Minnesota Timberwolves last spring — has appeared subdued.

“You just have to find ways to do things when you get out there,” Kuminga told Andscape.  “Make plays, defend. I don’t have a consistent role. I just play a role where I make sure I play defense and run the floor.”

A Star Waiting to Shine

That uncertainty has fueled Kuminga’s frustration. During contract talks, he made it clear that he wants more than to be just a complementary piece — he wants to become a star.

“I have too much confidence,” Kuminga said. “And my confidence doesn’t just come from inside because I work towards it. The sky is the limit. I can’t predict it, but I believe in God, I trust my work, and I know I have a long way to go.”

Inconsistency remains his biggest challenge. He was a steady plus-7 in the preseason opener against the Lakers, shooting 2-of-3 for five points, but finished minus-17 three nights later in Portland while missing four of five shots.

Still, the Warriors believe in his upside.

‘He Can Be Part of Something Special’

Kerr, who has guided the franchise through four championships, understands the young forward’s frustrations — and sees the value in his struggle.

“It’s been an interesting fit,” Kerr told Andscape. “He’s made it pretty clear that he wants the ball and an opportunity that a lot of his cohorts get and people who were drafted near him. And we weren’t able to offer that. We were a championship team. We won the title in his rookie year and have been in the mix the last few years. So, it’s been tough.”

Kerr said he respects Kuminga’s desire to grow into a larger role but reminded him that contribution can come in many forms.

“I respect the fact that he’s competing and fighting in a set of circumstances that maybe isn’t ideal for him,” Kerr said. “But the thing I keep telling him is he can play a role for us — absolutely — with his size, speed, and athleticism. He can play an important role on a very good team. He just turned 23. He has plenty of basketball ahead. One day, hopefully, he’ll look back on this as a valuable time in his career.”

Opportunity Knocks

With Curry, Butler and Horford all sidelined, Sunday’s preseason matchup offers Kuminga a chance to take command — to prove he can thrive when given the keys.

Whether it’s a glimpse of the future or simply another audition, the stage is finally his.

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