Golden State forward Jonathan Kuminga will sit out for the seventh consecutive game on Wednesday as he continues to deal with knee tendinitis, but the 21-year-old believes his return is close.
Kuminga told ESPN’s Anthony Slater he expects to be back “soon” and has already resumed limited work. According to NBC Bay Area’s Monte Poole, the third-year player participated in three-on-three drills Tuesday and is scheduled for another scrimmage Wednesday.
Before the setback, Kuminga was enjoying one of his most productive stretches, averaging 13.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists while appearing increasingly comfortable in head coach Steve Kerr’s rotation. Reports indicate, however, that previous friction between player and coach has yet to be fully resolved.
Green Upgraded
Veteran forward Draymond Green, who missed Monday’s win over Utah because of a foot issue, has been upgraded to probable for Wednesday, per Slater. Green holds a $27.7 million player option for the 2024-25 season.
Additional Absences
Center Al Horford is also ruled out for Wednesday as he manages a nerve problem, the team said. No timetable was provided for his return.
Butler’s Strong Night
Jimmy Butler delivered an efficient performance in Monday’s victory, finishing plus-19 in 28 minutes with 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting, six rebounds and seven assists. By contrast, Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen—whom Golden State pursued last season before shifting focus to Butler—was limited to 17 points on 31.6 percent shooting while being defended mainly by smaller Warriors wings.
Source: Hoops Wire
