Kerr Elevates Jonathan Kuminga to Permanent Warriors Starting Role
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SAN FRANCISCO — Golden State head coach Steve Kerr said Tuesday that forward Jonathan Kuminga will remain in the Warriors’ starting lineup for the foreseeable future.
Minutes before the team’s 98-79 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers, Kerr confirmed that Kuminga has secured the fourth fixed spot alongside Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. Kerr added that Kuminga will open games defending the opponent’s top perimeter scorer.
“He’ll be our starter going forward,” Kerr told reporters. “He’s been fantastic. Last night we put him on Ja Morant. Tonight we’ll put him on James Harden. I think he’s ready.”
The decision follows a strong five-game stretch in which the 22-year-old is averaging 16.2 points while shooting 53.7% from the field and 7-for-16 from three. Kuminga has also grabbed 37 rebounds, his highest total over any five-game span in his career.
Contract and roster context
Kuminga entered the offseason as a restricted free agent seeking a larger role. Golden State declined sign-and-trade proposals from the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns and ultimately re-signed him to a two-year, $46.8 million deal without promises of increased playing time.
An early-season calf injury to Moses Moody and a 22-minute cap on 19-year veteran Al Horford created an opening in the lineup. Kuminga has capitalized, helping the Warriors start 4-1.
Lineup ripple effects
Through five games, the trio of Kuminga, Butler and Green has logged 74 minutes together and outscored opponents by 37 points. Kerr, who had previously worried about floor spacing with that combination, said Kuminga’s improved decision-making has eased those concerns.
The fifth starting slot will continue to alternate between third-year guard Brandin Podziemski and second-year center Quinten Post based on matchups, Kerr added.
Source: ESPN
