Jonathan Kuminga Again Cast as Warriors’ Scapegoat During Mid-Season Slide
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Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is reportedly frustrated after losing his starting role, believing he has become “the scapegoat again” for the club’s recent struggles, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Strong start prompted Kerr to name him a starter
Head coach Steve Kerr promoted the 6-foot-8 wing to the opening lineup after Golden State opened the season 4-1. Over those five games, Kuminga averaged 16.2 points, 7.4 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 30.2 minutes while shooting 53.7% from the field and 76.2% at the foul line. His 37 rebounds marked the highest five-game total of his career.
“I think he’s ready,” Kerr said at the time, praising Kuminga’s rebounding and rim attacks.
Production dipped as losses mounted
The Warriors then dropped five of their next seven contests. During that span, Kuminga’s numbers fell to 12.3 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 26.3 minutes, with his field-goal percentage sliding to 43.9%. He also committed 23 turnovers across those seven games, leading Kerr to move him back to the bench.
Curry leads win streak while Kuminga sits
Golden State recorded three straight victories with Stephen Curry leading the charge as Kuminga was sidelined by knee soreness. The team’s success without him ignited questions about his long-term fit. Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, speaking to Slater, argued the winning stretch was unrelated to Kuminga’s absence, saying the Warriors were simply “playing better basketball” with clearer roles and improved defense.
Trade window opens in mid-January
Kuminga’s future remains cloudy despite signing a two-year, $46.8 million contract in late September that includes a 2026-27 team option, a 15% trade bonus and the waiver of his no-trade clause. League rules prevent the Warriors from trading him until Jan. 15 because he re-signed after hitting unrestricted free agency; most free agents become movable on Dec. 15.
Kuminga and Golden State ended a 92-day contract impasse just 48 hours into training camp. Whether the 21-year-old remains in San Francisco beyond the mid-January trade window could hinge on how both he and the team perform over the next several weeks.
Source: Basketball Insiders
