The Golden State Warriors are back on track, riding a strong 6-1 record since the arrival of Jimmy Butler. With momentum on their side, the team is eagerly anticipating the return of Jonathan Kuminga, who recently received an important message from Draymond Green.
Green has been in Kuminga’s shoes before—dealing with pressure, uncertainty, and the weight of an impending contract situation. After the Warriors opted not to extend Kuminga in the offseason, the stakes are even higher for the young forward. Speaking to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, Green offered his support and perspective.
“He’s missed a pretty important two months,” Green said. “You’re not going to get it all back in one day. But as a competitor, he does have the contract situation coming up. You don’t get this far without wanting to be the guy who makes it happen. Naturally, you press. That’s tough to navigate. I’ve been in contract situations before. That’s tough as hell.
“You want to come back and make it all happen at once. You drive yourself crazy. If that first night doesn’t go well, you go home and lose it. He just has to give himself some grace. Build back gradually and play well. We’re preparing for a strong run, and there will be plenty of time for him to prove exactly what we all already know he is.”
Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors drives against the Houston Rockets during the second half of a quarterfinal game in the NBA Emirates Cup.
Jimmy Butler on Kuminga’s return
Following the Warriors’ dominant 128-92 victory over the Charlotte Hornets, Jimmy Butler was asked about Kuminga’s reintegration into the lineup. Butler, confident in his new teammate, believes the transition should be seamless.
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“Hella athletic. Can shoot it. Can score in a multitude of ways. And can guard,” Butler said, per The Athletic’s Anthony Slater. “I think he’s going to come back and do what he’s been doing. My job is to make it even easier on him. So come on back and help us get some dubs.”
Will Kuminga fit in the current Warriors rotation?
One major question remains: Is there still a place for Kuminga on this team? Before his injury, he was having a breakout season, arguably emerging as the Warriors’ second-best player behind Stephen Curry. While he may not reclaim a starting role immediately, he could be a perfect fit as the team’s sixth man.
Kuminga’s return could significantly strengthen Steve Kerr’s second unit, allowing Butler more rest as he continues adjusting to the Warriors’ system. Additionally, it would ease the workload on veterans like Curry and Green. His potential chemistry with emerging contributors such as Brandin Podziemski, Quentin Post, Gary Payton II, and Gui Santos could make the Warriors even more formidable down the stretch.
If Golden State secures a playoff spot, they’ll be a dangerous opponent. With their current trajectory, the Warriors have their sights set on an NBA championship.
