WASHINGTON — Newly acquired forward Jonathan Kuminga wasted no time making an impact for Atlanta, pouring in 27 points Tuesday night as the Hawks defeated the Wizards 119–98.
Playing 24 minutes off the bench, the 23-year-old hit 9 of 12 shots and added seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Atlanta outscored Washington by 16 while he was on the floor.
Head coach Quin Snyder praised Kuminga’s “maturity” after the game, noting the forward’s willingness to move the ball and let plays develop. Kuminga, whose debut was delayed by a left-knee bone bruise following his deadline-day trade from Golden State, said adjusting has been “simple” because “it’s basketball at the end of the day.” He credited teammates Jalen Johnson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker for helping him learn the system.
Young receives video tribute
The contest also marked Trae Young’s first appearance at State Farm Arena since February’s trade that sent him to Washington. Still sidelined by knee and quad issues, the four-time All-Star watched from the Wizards’ bench and grew emotional during a second-quarter tribute video.
“I just wanted the Hawks fans to know how much I love and appreciate them,” Young said before tipoff, adding that he still feels “so much love for this city and these fans.”
Johnson exits early
Atlanta’s win was tempered by an injury to Jalen Johnson, who left in the first quarter with a left hip flexor strain and did not return. Snyder said trainers saw “enough there not to send him back in,” and the club has not indicated whether the All-Star forward will miss additional time.
Roster note
Elsewhere, former Hawk wing Nikola Djurisic is reportedly close to signing with Serbian club Crvena Zvezda after being waived by Atlanta last week.
Source: Hoops Rumors
