The Golden State Warriors did not have a great start to the season. They lost more games than they wished to win. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green missed a few games early in the season. Hence, the whole pressure to lead the side on the floor fell upon Klay Thompson. Needless to say, he was not very successful. Therefore, the team could not really enjoy a winning streak yet.
And whenever they’ve been in trouble they’ve always looked up to one player, that is Stephen Curry. But clearly, Stephen Curry alone cannot win games or titles. However, Klay and Green have not been at their best yet this season. In such a situation, the Warriors have a new hero in the young player named Jonathan Kuminga.
New Warriors Hero Jonathan Kuminga Shocks Everybody With His Maturity
On Wednesday, this 21-year-old wing came to the rescue of the Golden State Warriors. He surprised the coach, Steve Kerr, as well as his teammates. Generally, the players don’t take it well when the coach takes them out of the rotation. But Kuminga was calm and cool. He waited for his moment and then delivered when it was time. There is no doubt that the Warriors would lose against the Portland Trail Blazers if Jonathan Kuminga had not produced the win. Even the coach, Steve Kerr, said after the game that he was very happy for JK. Kerr said Kuminga stayed ready, and when he needed him to go out there, he went and produced a win.
JK was asked if he was surprised when he learned he wouldn't be part of the initial rotation tonight ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/OjQ4FmKtz8
— Warriors on NBCS (@NBCSWarriors) December 7, 2023
Kuminga was great and the key to the game for the Warriors. Moreover, Steve Kerr said it is just hard to play 10 guys. That’s the reason why he was out of the rotation. But the young man really handled the situation when he was a DNP with grace. He didn’t complain or throw a fit. Other NBA players can really learn from Jonathan Kuminga. In the post-game interview, JK mentioned if it was his first time, he could have asked what he needed to do. However, now, he knows what he must do. Clearly, the Warriors keep showing the talent level of their young stars. They prove that they are not as old as others might claim.
Steve Kerr Needs To See Consistency From JK Before Giving Him An Increased Role
No wonder Kuminga’s spark coming off the bench won the game for GSW. But the coach told the reporters that young players generally go through ups and downs. Hence, as a team, what they are looking for is consistency and decision-making. Kuminga must learn better when he must shoot and when to move it. Moreover, Steve Kerr said that some games will favor him and some won’t.
That’s not new for a young player. But as a team, they always strive for what they need each night to get a win. Currently, they have a .476 record. But the fans expected more from the team that wishes to win their 5th title in ten years. However, the Warriors are the 11th seed in the Western Conference at present.