Why is Jonathan Kuminga not playing tonight against Kings? Latest on Warriors' rising star's absence (Jan. 5)

Jonathan Kuminga will miss the Golden State Warriors' regular-season matchup against their conference rivals Sacramento Kings on Sunday. He sustained a right ankle injury during the team's 121-113 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday.

The injury, described as "significant," has sidelined Kuminga for the Warriors' second game of a back-to-back, with the possibility of the young forward missing additional games.

Kuminga had an impressive start against the Grizzlies, delivering an instant scoring boost off the bench. However, his promising performance was cut short by the injury. The incident occurred with just over two minutes left in the first half when Kuminga attempted to block Jake LaRavia’s shot but landed awkwardly on LaRavia’s foot, twisting his right ankle in the process.

The Warriors' rising star grimaced in pain before heading to the locker room and did not return for the remainder of the game. After the win, coach Steve Kerr addressed the situation and acknowledged the seriousness of Kuminga's injury.

"It’s not going to be a day-to-day thing. It was a significant sprain," Kerr said.

“JK has been playing the best basketball of his career. We’re going to miss him. But Kyle (Anderson) will fill in well," the Warriors coach added while speaking on how the team will cope with Kuminga's absence.

Kuminga's night ended prematurely, but not before he delivered an efficient performance, scoring 13 points on 4 of 6 shooting, including a perfect 3 of 3 from beyond the arc. In just 15 minutes of play, he also added two rebounds and two assists.

Where to watch Golden State Warriors vs. Sacramento Kings?

The Golden State Warriors vs. Sacramento Kings game will take place on Sunday, Jan. 5, at the Chase Center in San Francisco, California. Tip off is slated for 8:30 p.m. EST (5:30 p.m. PT).

The Warriors vs. Kings game will be telecast live on NBCS-BA (local) and NBCS-CA (local). Hoops fans can also stream the game live on the NBA League Pass and Fubo TV app and website (regional restrictions may apply).