Younger than some players participating in the Summer League, Jonathan Kuminga was in Las Vegas on Sunday to cheer on the Warriors of Brandin Podziemski and Trauyce Jackson-Davis. Like Stephen Curry or Steve Kerr, the 21-year-old winger was asked about Klay Thompson's departure to the Mavericks.
“I was a little shocked. Klay is someone who took me under his wing when I was drafted.”, he reacted on ESPN. “He was one of my role models when I was on the field. He always explained to me how the league worked and things like that. Then, of course, we all know that in this league, you can wake up overnight and find yourself somewhere else. Things move faster. But in the end, I'm happy for him. Every decision he makes is for his own good and for his future. I still talk to him, ask him questions about how things work, etc. But that's just the way it is…”
The 4th year, a season to make a big leap forward
The good news for Jonathan Kuminga is that he is still with the Warriors, even though his name is circulating in trade rumors. In February, management remained deaf to outside offers, and GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. confirmed that he expected a lot from his young winger. In fact, his ambition is to extend his contract.
“Usually between the 3rd and 4th year there is a huge jump, and that's what we expect from Jonathan.” explained Mike Dunleavy Jr.also present in Las Vegas. “He’s improved over the years, but especially this summer. I know he’s really giving it his all. I think he understands the way we play better and he knows how to play with Steph and Draymond, getting to the rebound and cutting the baseline. Jonathan has really improved every year and we think this is the year he could make a big leap. That’s what we expect from him.”
Last March, it was Draymond Green who warned that 2025 could be the year of Kuminga. He's going to be very good. He can be a regular All-Star in this league. It depends on him and the work he puts in. But he's got the skills, the weapons, he sees the game well… If he works, he has the potential to be a regular All-Star. »
