Feb 24, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) controls the ball against the Washington Wizards during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
Feb 24, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (0) controls the ball against the Washington Wizards during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
It hasn’t been an easy road for NBA swingman Jonathan Kuminga. In just five short years in the NBA, he’s faced some uncomfortable situations, but there’s hope that the worst is behind him now. At the very least, after signing a two-year, $12.4 million deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves this summer, Kuminga will have the chance to prove his worth and restore his value as a player.
As it currently stands, Minnesota still has a lot of work ahead, but they already have a concrete game plan for how they will incorporate the NBA champion into their star-studded lineup. According to Kuminga himself, coach Finch has tasked him with controlling the boards, running the break, and defending perimeter shooters on the wing.
“We haven’t spoken much, just a little bit,” Kuminga told reporters on Thursday. “He wants me to come here and be myself, rebound and defend at the highest level. I think those two will open the rest of the stuff. I think just focusing on those two: rebound and defend, I think that’ll help the team, and that will help me.”
With career averages of 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game on 50.2% shooting from the field, Kuminga certainly has the talent to make a positive impact for the Wolves. The question is whether he will embrace his role and give the Timberwolves what they need. Despite his history with the Warriors (where he was famously pulled in and out of the rotation), Minnesota is confident he will deliver.
As for what comes after, there’s no way to know right now. As much as Kuminga has embraced his new surroundings, he has refrained from making a long-term commitment to the organization. He can easily become a free agent again next summer if he wants, but the goal right now is to make the best of his current situation.
“I would love it to be a long-term thing, but I’m not going to predict what it’s going to be,” Kuminga added. “I think God has a plan for all of us, and all I have to do is just come in and do my job every single day, and the rest of the things will handle themselves.”
Kuminga hasn’t always played well with others. In Golden State, he clashed with head coach Steve Kerr, leading to a messy and bitter divorce. Ever since, there have been lingering questions about his humility, maturity, and level of awareness. Dragging out his free agency this summer did not help his case, either, as critics used it as evidence of an inflated self-worth.
Nevertheless, Kuminga has a fresh start in Minnesota, and both sides are celebrating. After going 49-33 last season, the additions of Kuminga and LaMelo Ball should be enough to push them into a higher tier, and how Kuminga responds could very well determine his long-term future with the franchise. For now, it’s all about the transition process and ensuring that every player is on the same page going into the new season. So far, all the signs have been positive, and JK is confident he made the right decision.