Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga becomes trade-eligible on January 15, and speculation around his status intensified after he did not play in Sunday’s loss to the Bulls in Chicago.
Head coach Steve Kerr addressed the situation Wednesday, telling reporters via ESPN’s Anthony Slater that he understands Kuminga’s frustration. “I can imagine it’s not easy for him,” Kerr said. “My desire is for JK to be the best player he can be, regardless of where he ends up, whether it’s here or elsewhere.” The organization continues to say it values the 21-year-old, though his playing time has varied throughout the season while opposing clubs keep a close watch.
Curry scrimmages, could face Timberwolves
Stephen Curry participated in a full scrimmage Wednesday. Kerr indicated the outlook is “promising” for the two-time MVP to play Friday night against Minnesota, although no final decision has been made. Curry has missed the past four games with a quad contusion and muscle strain.
Defense paces recent surge
Golden State owns the NBA’s top defensive rating over the last two weeks and ranks third overall this season, according to Sam Gordon of The San Francisco Chronicle. The Warriors have held three consecutive opponents below 100 points, tightening up after Draymond Green publicly challenged the roster following a November 26 defeat to Houston.
Despite lacking size, the club has leaned on aggressive ball pressure, frequent switching and the return of guard De’Anthony Melton, who made his season debut last week after recovering from an ACL injury. “We’re taking away some of the easy stuff,” Kerr said. “Overall, we’re doing a better job containing dribble penetration and just helping each other and playing with a lot of energy.”
Offense still lagging
Offensively, the Warriors sit 22nd in the league, hampered by turnovers. Unexpected contributions have helped keep them competitive; reserve guard Pat Spencer is averaging 16.0 points and 5.8 assists on 59.1 percent shooting over the past four games in Curry’s absence. “He’s a really good downhill pick-and-roll player,” Kerr said. “A powerful force … and he’s a good passer.”
Golden State visits the Timberwolves on Friday before returning home to face Denver on Sunday.
Source: Hoops Wire
