Warriors head coach Steve Kerr reconsiders playing time for young talent before crucial Game 7

The Golden State Warriors built a competitive roster around three stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Their experience and leadership helped the team reach the postseason. As a result, Steve Kerr shortened the rotation. Some players lost minutes and struggled to stay involved. However, Kerr addressed the situation before Game 7 against the Houston Rockets. He mentioned that one young player could get a chance to contribute.

“Every game is different, and I think Jimmy’s arrival took away a lot of Jonathan’s minutes at the four,” stated Stever Kerr on April. Now, as the Warriors prepare for a decisive Game 7, Kerr addressed Jonathan Kuminga’s situation again. He was asked if the young forward will get another opportunity. This time, Kerr gave a direct and confident response.

“100% he’s on the table…We’ve kind of found a formula here in the latter part of the season…Then obviously last two games have gone very poorly. We have to assess everything. Lineup combinations, starters, all of that we have to assess. We feel like we got a great chance to go down there and win Game 7,” affirmed Steve Kerr.

Despite his potential, it is hard to imagine Jonathan Kuminga earning significant minutes anytime soon. He has not participated in the last three games of the franchise. Consequently, his absence has sparked speculation about a possible trade down the line. However, over his last five appearances, Kuminga has struggled offensively. He has failed to score more than 12 points in any game leaving doubts on his potential.

Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors during a game against the Washington Wizards on February 27, 2024.

Nonetheless, Kuminga was seeing an expanded role prior to Jimmy Butler’s arrival. But now, with the rotation tightening, his future with the team appears uncertain. At just 22 years old, the young forward may seek a fresh start elsewhere to secure a larger role and continue his development.

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Is Golden State limiting Jonathan Kuminga’s potential with inconsistent playing time?

Jonathan Kuminga has proven he belongs in the NBA since his rookie season in 2021-22. He showed growth each year. In 2023-24, he averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Those numbers confirmed his development. However, things changed after Jimmy Butler arrived. Kuminga lost his place and disappeared from the rotation. That would not be a major issue, if he still had some important minutes. But he did not.

He played in only two postseason games. Now, he might get another shot. Still, the situation feels unclear. Steve Kerr’s decisions suggest he does not fully trust Kuminga. Giving him minutes in a high-stakes game could be risky. It might help his case or push him closer to the exit. If he performs well, he could earn back a role. If not, it may confirm his place outside the team’s plans.

Many fans believe the Warriors have treated Kuminga unfairly. His level of play did not deserve a complete drop from the rotation. He can contribute more than several current roster players. His skill set fits the franchise’s long-term goals. Yet without trust from the coaching staff, his future looks fragile. And unless that changes, he seems destined to leave.