It's only preseason, but third-year forward Jonathan Kuminga is lighting it up for Golden State. The former No. 7 overall pick is averaging 26 points through three games.
Jonathan Kuminga in the preseason:
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) October 16, 2023
26.0 PPG
5.7 RPG
54.5% FG
47.1% 3PT
( @IQfor3 )
pic.twitter.com/xQSv37tAa3
Last season, the 21-year-old averaged 9.9 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists and shot 52.5% from the field and 37% from downtown. As a defender, he's already one of the better point-of-attack defenders across the league.
Jonathan Kuminga this season ranked:
— BBall Index (@The_BBall_Index) September 19, 2023
12th in Perimeter Isolation Defense
13th in Defensive Positional Versatility
That’s some strong on-ball defense that can be applied to multiple positions!
A weaker area was his 362nd ranked Off-Ball Gravity.
There's no denying the potential with Kuminga, and if he begins to make significant strides this regular season, the ceiling on Golden State will skyrocket. The Lakers eliminated the Warriors last season in the Western Conference semifinals.
"I just want to keep growing as a basketball player," Kuminga told NBC Sports Bay Area. "Get better at reading the game. Making sure the game comes easier."
Kuminga's unique skillset and athleticism are unmatched on the roster.
He has also found a way to get to the free-throw line in the preseason. In Golden State's 121-115 win Sunday against the Sacramento Kings, Kuminga finished with 28 points and shot 13-for-17 (76%) at the free-throw line.
"[We're] not the most athletic team...If he can attack the rim and get to the foul line, it makes us a better team," head coach Steve Kerr said of Kuminga. "[Kuminga and Andrew Wiggins] can change this team with their athleticism."
With the addition of veteran guard Chris Paul, one of the best pick-and-roll players in NBA history, Kuminga should flourish. As long as Kuminga is given a bigger and more consistent role off the bench, expect big things.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!