Jonathan Kuminga’s season has unfolded in fits and starts, and Tuesday night added another chapter to a story that refuses to settle. After being removed from the Golden State Warriors rotation by Steve Kerron December 20, the 23-year-old forward finally made his return against the Toronto Raptors.
Kuminga came off the bench and delivered a solid individual showing. He finished with 20 points, five rebounds, and two assists in just 21 minutes. The problem was the context. Golden State was overwhelmed in a 145-127 loss, a night defined by defensive breakdowns and a scorching performance from Immanuel Quickley, who poured in 40 points on near-perfect efficiency.
Still, Kuminga’s performance mattered. All 20 of his points came in the second half, long after the game had slipped away, but it was enough to remind everyone that his talent remains undeniable. According to ESPN’s Marc J. Spears, the forward’s return also came with a trade still looming in the background.
Kerr, speaking postgame, struck a positive tone. He praised Kuminga’s energy, his aggression, and his ability to stay prepared despite weeks away from the rotation. The comments, reported by NBC Sports Bay Area, carried extra weight given the circumstances surrounding the roster.
“Nothing is imminent…
Warriors on Kuminga: A rotation opens, but questions remain
Those circumstances changed dramatically just 24 hours earlier. Jimmy Butler suffered a torn ACL against the Miami Heat, an injury that is expected to sideline him for the remainder of the 2026 season and potentially beyond. With Butler out, a clear opening emerged in Kerr’s rotation, and Kuminga was the immediate beneficiary.
That return, however, does not erase the bigger picture. Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. acknowledged Tuesday that Kuminga has requested a trade. Speaking during his pregame availability, Dunleavy admitted disappointment that the situation has not worked out more smoothly, while emphasizing patience. “Nothing is imminent,” he said, via ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Around the league, interest is already forming. Teams such as the Dallas Mavericks, Phoenix Suns, Sacramento Kings, Brooklyn Nets, and New Orleans Pelicans have all been linked to Kuminga by league insiders.
For now, Golden State appears content to let the situation breathe. Kuminga will keep playing, his value potentially rising with each strong performance. The Warriors, dealing with injuries and expectations, are in no rush. In today’s NBA, that stance can change quickly, but for the moment, the message from the front office is clear: patience comes first.
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