Jonathan Kuminga was the main talking point after the Golden State Warriors opened their season with a 119-109 win over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The 22-year-old forward finished with 17 points, nine rebounds, and six assists, hitting four of his six attempts from beyond the arc.
Kuminga’s offseason contract dispute was lengthy, but his performance seems to have paid off. Fans now believe he is already proving his worth, especially after his heroic opening night.
After the game, Draymond Green made sure to highlight Kuminga’s impact, but he was not the only one to do it.
Stephen Curry praises Jonathan Kuminga’s defence and impact against the Mavericks
Stephen Curry also spoke highly of Kuminga’s night, pointing out how he handled the tough task of defending Luka Doncic.
“I know Luka got his numbers, but he [Kuminga] took the challenge trying to make him work for everything, and it’s great to have a point of attack defender like that, that can again take the challenge. He’s going to continue to get better at that,” the No. 30 said.
Kuminga showed real effort on both ends of the floor. While Doncic still finished with 41 points and 12 rebounds, the 22-year-old showed plenty of hustle in what was a strong defensive showing.
He recorded one steal and six defensive rebounds, contributing to an improved team effort on defence overall.
The Warriors put faith in Kuminga early in his career as a key defender against top scorers, and this performance supported that belief.
Jonathan Kuminga’s two-way performance could alter trade speculation
Curry added that Kuminga’s impact went beyond the box score, highlighting his effort and decision-making throughout the game.
“But those 50/50 balls, decisive plays. Especially in the second half when we started to get the ball moving. If he didn’t have anything, he got off it. Ball came back to him in the corner, he hit some big threes, got to the lane, and the offensive rebound was huge.
“So, trying to be in the right place at the right time and continue to make impactful plays. Like we all try to do that because that’s what helps you win. And the more he can do that, the more he helps himself and help us.”
Kuminga has been a topic of trade rumours stretching from preseason into this current campaign.
Yet, if he keeps up this level of play on both ends – scoring while taking on tough defensive assignments – the Warriors may see more value in keeping him than in exploring deals elsewhere.
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