Even in the limited appearances Jonathan Kuminga has had for the Warriors this season, he’s shown his worth. The troubles are persistent. His team faces a struggling Nets side at the Barclays Center tonight. They’ve been flying with a 9-2 record since they brought in Jimmy Butler to the Bay Area. But they’ll have to dominate in Brooklyn without Kuminga’s talent.
Their win over the Grizzlies on January 4th earlier this year was a day of mixed emotions. He was on a roll with 13 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists in 15 minutes at the Staples Center. He was their top scorer and was shooting 4-of-6 from the field and a perfect 3-of-3 from three-point range. But an attempted block caused him to land awkwardly on his right angle, twisting it and sidelining him for the foreseeable future. For all it’s worth, Kuminga’s efforts were the difference maker as they won the game 121-113. The same ankle injury rules him out for the Nets clash.
“It’s going to be tough. JK’s been playing the best basketball of his career these last couple weeks, so we’re going to miss him,” said Steve Kerr back when the injury was still fresh. He might’ve called him JK, but the only joke has been injuries hampering a quality player’s season.
Jan 4, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) drives to the basket against the Memphis Grizzlies in the second quarter at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images
That ankle’s been a thorn in his side for the last 2 months. He’s missed 29 straight games. This kinda injury would crush any 22-year-old. But he’s worth his salt, and he’s not done yet. The Shawn Marion regen is looking to build a legacy in the sport. Don’t forget that he was the 7th pick in the first round of the 2021 draft. The Kum Bucket has averaged 22.1 points and 4 rebounds in 243 Warriors games while shooting with a brilliant 51.2 FG%. He’s expected to appear next in the Bay Area’s upcoming homestand.
Warriors issue injury update on another key player
This year has been fantastic for the Golden State. Their form charts have gone through the roof since Buckets’ arrival. Their injury list isn’t worrisome at all. All their players are 100% fit and available for the Nets clash- except Kuminga, and possibly Gary Payton II.
Son of Hall of Famer Gary Payton, Gary Jr. has had it tough in the NBA. His attempts at following his father’s golden footsteps have been stopped in its tracks due to a multitude of reasons. That says enough when Kuminga’s played nearly as many games in 3 seasons as Young Glove has played in his nearly 10-year career.
But some of the lots are late bloomers. 32 years young, the current season has been Payton’s most productive season to date. Game time might be limited, but he’s nearing half a century of appearances this season. But the big 50 might have to wait, as a nose injury lists him as probable for the Nets clash. During their recent win over the Hornets, Gary Jr. collided with LaMelo Ball. He lay on the ground bleeding, assisted to the locker room never to return to the game. Turns out the cut his nose, so it ain’t the worst thing in the world. But he did miss their recent win over the Knicks and might miss the second game at the Big Apple as well.
Gary Payton II is probable tomorrow at Nets. Jonathan Kuminga remains out. His return will be pushed into homestand. Rest of Warriors are clear for Brooklyn game.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) March 5, 2025
A dominant win over the Nets will be a testament to the Warriors’ last 2 months. They’ve crept up to 6th in the West, and aren’t looking to slow down anytime soon. Steph Curry and the team might have to get it done without Jonathan Kuminga and Gary Payton II. Do you think the Barclays will witness another Golden State masterclass?
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