After the Golden State Warriors won their road game debut against the Los Angeles Lakers with a score of 119-109, much of the credit goes to their core, including Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
Aside from them, Jonathan Kuminga deserves appreciation as he proved his value amid the contract drama that went through the Warriors’ offseason.
Dubs head tactician Steve Kerr and Green commended Kuminga for his maturity, which they attributed to having veteran depth on his side.
For Kerr, Jimmy Butler has been helping the 23-year-old wing, as he has observed that he has made mature decisions so far compared to previous years.
“I think he has really, really matured,” Kerr said, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater. “I think he has a better sense of what’s needed now compared to past years. Jimmy has really helped him too. Jimmy has talked to him a lot during camp, taken him aside during practices. Remember, Jonathan just turned 23.”
While the veteran four-time champion said that Kuminga delivered well, he has superstar potential, and he should learn to make game-winning plays; he has proven it in the season opener.
“That rebound is what everyone in the world has been waiting to see,” Green said. “You have that athleticism, you go make big plays. You have superstar potential, you go make big plays. Those are game-winning plays. When you ask for opportunity, you must deliver. He’s been very vocal about his opportunity, and he delivered.”
Kuminga had 13 third-quarter points, while also improving his deep range with three 3-pointers, eight boards, which includes his crucial offensive rebound, and six assists.
