The surging Golden State Warriors are set to receive a significant boost to their lineup this week, as they welcome back a key contributor to their rotation.
Forward Jonathan Kuminga is on track to return to action on Thursday night when the Warriors take on the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center, according to a report from The Athletic’s Anthony Slater.
Kuminga has been sidelined for the past 31 games after suffering a severe lateral right ankle sprain on January 4.
The injury occurred during a game against the Memphis Grizzlies when he landed awkwardly on the foot of guard Desmond Bane, causing significant damage to his ankle.
Before he is officially cleared to play, Kuminga must successfully participate in a full team practice on Wednesday and receive final approval from the team’s medical staff.
Even upon his return, the coaching staff is expected to manage his workload carefully, limiting his minutes as he gradually regains full game readiness, Slater notes.
Prior to the setback, Kuminga had been on an impressive offensive tear, showcasing his scoring ability with performances of 26, 34, 34, and 20 points in the four contests leading up to the injury.
Across the season, the 22-year-old forward has posted averages of 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds per game, proving to be a valuable asset to Golden State’s offensive and defensive schemes.
Kuminga’s return comes at a crucial time for a Warriors squad that has found its rhythm in the aftermath of the blockbuster trade that brought Jimmy Butler to the Bay Area.
The team, which was struggling with a sub-.500 record through 51 games, has since undergone a dramatic turnaround. Now boasting a 37-28 record, the Warriors enter Thursday’s matchup riding a five-game winning streak.
They have climbed to sixth place in the Western Conference standings, narrowly edging out the red-hot Minnesota Timberwolves by half a game as they fight to secure a direct playoff berth and avoid the play-in tournament.
Beyond the immediate on-court impact, Kuminga’s return also carries contractual and financial implications.
The young forward and the Warriors were unable to agree on a rookie-scale contract extension before the league’s October deadline, meaning he is set to become a restricted free agent after the season.
His performance down the stretch could majorly determine his market value and future with the franchise.
With the playoffs quickly approaching, Kuminga’s return injects even more intrigue into Golden State’s late-season push, as they aim to solidify their postseason position and build momentum for a deep playoff run.
Warriors Forward Jonathan Kuminga Expected To Play On Thursday https://t.co/MvREROGhDz pic.twitter.com/jBAk8bqZPT
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) March 11, 2025
