Jonathan Kuminga was the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA draft by the Golden State Warriors. Kuminga is in his second season and has shown some improvement during the campaign but has barely played in the postseason against the Sacrameno Kings and LA Lakers.
The 20-year-old forward averaged 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 67 games in the regular season. He shot 52.5% from the field, 37.0% from beyond the arc and 65.2% from the charity stripe.
There were some rough moments for Kuminga during the season but were largely positive ones. His role under coach Steve Kerr was an energizer either as a starter or off the bench. He had to cover for Andrew Wiggins, who was out due to family reasons after the All-Star break.
Explore the NBA Draft 2024 with our free NBA Mock Draft Simulator & be the GM of your favorite NBA team.
Jonathan Kuminga signed a four-year, $24.9 million contract after getting drafted. Kuminga earned $5.5 million in his rookie season and has a salary of $5.7 million in his sophomore campaign.
The Golden State Warriors have already exercised their team option for the 2023-24 NBA season worth $6 million. The defending champions also have a $.6 million team option for Kuminga's fourth year, making him eligible for a contract extension in the summer of 2024.
If the Warriors and Kuminga can't agree a rookie extension, he will be a restricted free agent with a qualifying offer valued at $10.2 million. Golden State's ownership has a huge decision to make, as they're entering the final phase of their dynasty.
Also Read: "He is the best closer in the game" - Former NBA champion lauds Jimmy Butler's clutch gene
Jonathan Kuminga having tough time being out of rotation in playoffs
Jonathan Kuminga averaged 20.8 minutes per game in the regular season. Kuminga was one of the Golden State Warriors' top options off the bench but has lost his place in the rotation in the postseason.
In an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle last week, Kuminga discussed having a tough time adjusting to his limited role in the playoffs. He noted that he's ready to prove himself again and earn more minutes.
"It's still tough to lock in every single time," Kuminga said. "It's still tough to smile every single time. But knowing where I've come from, seeing how many things that I've actually been through that a lot of people don't know that got me to this point. ... You can't stop the sun from shining, and at some point, the sun is going to come out. That's what keeps me ready every day."
With Andrew Wiggins dealing with a rib injury, Kuminga could earn himself some minutes. However, for that to happen, the Warriors will have to overcome the LA Lakers and move on to the Western Conference finals against the Denver Nuggets.
Warriors Nation! You can check out the latest Golden State Warriors Schedule and dive into the Warriors Depth Chart for NBA Season 2024-25.