Draymond Green has high hopes for Jonathan Kuminga this season. The Golden State Warriors veteran forward believes the former G League Ignite standout is ready to take a leap in his development and earn a bigger role in the rotation. Kuminga is entering his third NBA season.
Golden State has added multiple veterans to its roster this summer, placing more pressure on Kuminga as it seeks impact minutes from one of their younger players. Furthermore, Kuminga will be expected to provide athleticism and explosiveness on the defensive end as he looks to build on a strong finish to the regular season from an individual standpoint.
Green shared his thoughts during a media interview following a recent Warriors practice session.
“What he started to show us last year on the defensive side was incredible,” Green said. “He was able to showcase his gifts. And I think now, he will be able to showcase you not only his gifts but his understanding. And, I think that will take his defensive game to a whole other level. … I think you’ll see more certainty in who he is, more confidence in who he is. … I think that will be the difference with Jonathan Kuminga. I think it will be great for him. I think it will be great for us.”
The Warriors began their training camp on Oct. 2, and will begin their preseason schedule on Saturday, Oct. 7, when they face the Los Angeles Lakers in a repeat of the Western Conference semifinals.
Draymond: “I think what JK started to show us last year on defense was incredible. I think now he’s not only going to show his gifts but his understanding. That’ll take his defensive game to a whole other level. As far as a player overall, you’ll see more certainty. More confidence in who he is”
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Warriors fans will likely be keen to see the developmental jumps Kuminga has made, especially against a Lakers team they will likely face in the postseason.
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