Jonathan Kuminga’s electrifying performance in the Golden State Warriors’ opening night victory over the Los Angeles Lakers has cemented his role as the team’s X-factor this season.
Fresh off an offseason marked by controversial contract talks, the young forward’s work ethic and brilliance were on full display.
He erupted for 17 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, going a perfect 5/5 in the third quarter, but the real alchemy was in the details.
Kuminga finally gets it
A common critique of Kuminga’s game in previous years was his lack of rebounding, as he favored outlet passes, relying on his quickness and athleticism to run the floor.
However, it’s like night and day now—this new approach from Kuminga resulted in three of his nine rebounds being offensive, one of which led to the dagger three from Stephen Curry.
NBA: Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
Those extra possessions fueled runs for the Warriors, pushing the lead to 17 in the third quarter.
The rest of his rebounds showed Kuminga making the right plays, pushing in transition, and creating easy looks for teammates instead of forcefully driving to the basket.
Developing in real time for the Warriors
Kuminga’s development as a player is happening in real time—no longer the raw, low-IQ athlete, but a more refined playmaker.
He threaded precise passes through LA’s defense and set up impressive fast break opportunities. As Draymond noted postgame, “When you ask for opportunity, you must deliver. He delivered.”
Jonathan Kuminga, NBA: Preseason-Golden State Warriors at Portland Trail Blazers
Credit: Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images
This isn’t the Kuminga of past iso-hunts; it’s clear he has embraced Kerr’s system. Last season, the Warriors’ net rating suffered when Kuminga, Butler, and Green shared the floor, but on opening night, they ran a well-tuned offense.
Kuminga spread the floor effectively, opening driving lanes, while Butler went a perfect 16 of 16 from the free throw line, and Green tallied nine assists.
Kuminga’s two-way versatility reminded many of Andre Iguodala in his prime, and he seems ready to serve as the bridge between the veteran leaders and the next generation.
Kuminga is the bridge for ring #5
The Warriors’ pursuit of a fifth title hinges on load management for their star veterans, and Kuminga is the key to making sure they don’t have to log heavy minutes all season. Last season, before an injury, Kuminga averaged 21 points per game in just six starts during December.
NBA: Golden State Warriors at Los Angeles Lakers
Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
If he can hover around 18-20 points per game while also being a strong rebounder, playmaker, and shooter, it will be tough for the Warriors not to value him highly come trade deadline.
In a competitive Western Conference, Kuminga’s growth could redefine these twilight years for Golden State. The Warriors aren’t fading—they’re reloading.