Jonathan Kuminga, Warriors
Getty
Former Golden State Warriors lottery pick Jonathan Kuminga dunks during the third quarter of the game between the Atlanta Hawks and the Washington Wizards.
Quin Snyder isn’t rushing Jonathan Kuminga — even as the Atlanta Hawks continue to surge.
Atlanta extended the NBA’s longest active winning streak to 10 games Monday night with a 124-112 victory over the Orlando Magic, but Kuminga’s performance offered a reminder that his integration remains a work in progress.
The recently acquired forward finished with seven points on 2-of-7 shooting, adding eight rebounds and one assist in 19 minutes — a modest stat line on a night when Atlanta’s established players carried the load.
Still, Snyder’s postgame comments made it clear: the Hawks are focused on the long game with Kuminga.
“I think with JK being back, our rotations become clearer,” Snyder said. “If we’re playing Mo (Mouhamed Gueye), who has been really good for us — particularly defensively — you can see lineups with JK, Jaylen, Onyeka and Mo. We’re going to get some of those groups at different times when the game calls for it.”
Jonathan Kuminga Still Finding Rhythm in Hawks Rotation
Kuminga’s return from a lingering knee issue has not been seamless.
After a promising three-game stretch following his arrival from Golden State — where he averaged 21.3 points, 7.7 rebounds and 3.3 assists — the former lottery pick has struggled to regain that same offensive rhythm.
Over his last two appearances, Kuminga has averaged just 4.5 points and 8.5 rebounds, shooting 18.2 percent from the field and 54.8 percent from the free-throw line.
Monday’s outing reflected that inconsistency.
But Snyder, notably, did not frame it as a setback.
“JK is still finding his rhythm after being out for a while, so it was good to get him back, continue to integrate him and get him more comfortable,” Snyder said. “But he came to compete as well.”
Hawks’ Jumbo Lineups Highlight Kuminga’s Defensive Potential
Even as Kuminga searches for offensive consistency, his physical tools remain central to Atlanta’s vision.
Snyder pointed to a potential “jumbo” lineup featuring Kuminga alongside Jalen Johnson, Onyeka Okongwu and Mouhamed Gueye — a group defined by size, versatility and defensive range.
With all four players standing at least 6-foot-8, the lineup offers switchability across positions and the ability to disrupt opposing offenses with length and athleticism.
It’s a look that could become increasingly important as the Hawks push toward the postseason.
Atlanta’s Win Streak Powered by Depth
While Kuminga works his way back into form, Atlanta continues to win — and convincingly.
Nickeil Alexander-Walker erupted for a career-high 41 points, while Johnson recorded his 13th triple-double of the season with 24 points, 15 rebounds and 13 assists.
Dyson Daniels added 15 points and 12 rebounds, underscoring the depth that has fueled Atlanta’s rise.
The Hawks improved to 38-31, reclaiming the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference and continuing to close the gap on the No. 6 Toronto Raptors, now just 1.5 games ahead.
Jonathan Kuminga Trade Still Under Evaluation
Kuminga’s role in Atlanta remains one of the most intriguing storylines down the stretch.
The Hawks acquired him in a deadline deal that sent Kristaps Porzingis to Golden State, taking a calculated risk on a high-upside forward who had grown frustrated with his role.
Now, Atlanta has time — and incentive — to evaluate that gamble.
Kuminga holds a $24.3 million team option for next season, with a decision looming by June 29. His performance over the final stretch of the season could play a significant role in determining his long-term future with the franchise.
Hawks Balancing Winning Now With Kuminga’s Development
For now, the Hawks don’t need Kuminga to carry them.
Their 10-game winning streak has been built on balance, depth and defensive versatility — not reliance on any one player.
That reality allows Snyder and his staff to bring Kuminga along deliberately, prioritizing comfort and fit over immediate production.
The results, so far, suggest it’s working.
Atlanta is climbing the standings, building momentum — and slowly, methodically, figuring out where Kuminga fits into a team that suddenly looks like a legitimate playoff threat.
And if that fit comes together at the right time, the Hawks may have added more than just a rotational piece at the deadline.