Steve Kerr Reflects on Improving Support for Jonathan Kuminga
Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr recently reflected on the journey of Jonathan Kuminga, a forward who played five seasons with the team before being traded to the Atlanta Hawks. Kerr admitted he could have better facilitated Kuminga’s transition into the NBA, acknowledging the challenges he faced during his time with the Warriors.
Steve Kerr’s Regrets on Jonathan Kuminga’s Development
Before a game against the Phoenix Suns, Kerr expressed his respect for Kuminga as a person and teammate. He stated that the young player had a challenging time adapting to the league, stating, “It’s been a rocky road for him and for us.” He noted the difficulty of navigating a situation where a rookie joins a championship-caliber team.
Final Trade Details
- Date of Trade: Thursday (exact date unspecified)
- Outgoing Player: Jonathan Kuminga
- Incoming Player: Kristaps Porziņģis
- Additional Trade: Buddy Hield was also sent out
Kerr acknowledged the complexity of integrating a young player like Kuminga into a veteran team aiming for high-level competition. The Warriors selected Kuminga as the No. 7 pick in the 2021 draft, but his performance was inconsistent over the years.
Hope for a Fresh Start in Atlanta
Despite the challenges faced in San Francisco, Kerr remains optimistic about Kuminga’s future. He emphasized the importance of being in the right situation for a player’s success. He stated, “Opportunity is everything,” believing that Kuminga could leverage his experiences for a fresh start in Atlanta.
The End of the “Two Timelines” Strategy
Kuminga’s trade signifies a shift in the Warriors’ strategy. The organization originally aimed to develop young talent alongside veterans like Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson. However, this plan has faced obstacles. Aside from Kuminga, the No. 2 pick of the 2020 draft, James Wiseman, struggles have left him out of the league. The No. 14 pick from 2021, Moses Moody, while still with the team, has not progressed as anticipated.
The Arrival of Kristaps Porziņģis
With the addition of Kristaps Porziņģis, Kerr expressed confidence in his potential contribution to the team. Porziņģis, a seasoned player known for his three-point shooting and rim protection abilities, is expected to join the team in Los Angeles soon. Kerr mentioned health as a priority for Porziņģis, adding that the coaching staff believes he can return to form.
Outlook for the Season
The Warriors currently hold a 27-24 record and are looking forward to a playoff push. Kerr remains hopeful that with the return of key players like Curry and the integration of Porziņģis, the team can regain momentum. He noted that while the team’s ceiling may not be as high without Jimmy Butler, the leadership and chemistry present could still drive a successful playoff run.
