Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr explained Jonathan Kuminga’s recent benching on 95.7 The Game’s Willard & Dibs, citing inconsistent performance. “He’s obviously a guy with a lot of ambition, which I love… There has to be a consistent level of play in order to achieve that,” Kerr said, via ClutchPoints.
Kuminga, 23, has the physical tools to be a two-way impact player, but Kerr stressed the need for mental toughness and basketball IQ in the NBA’s highly competitive environment. “We’re talking about the best basketball league in the world. So the consistency has to be there for us. If it’s not there, then it makes it much more difficult for me to give him consistent minutes and give him starts,” he added.
The forward did not play in Sunday’s 123-91 win over the Chicago Bulls, which was marked by the absence of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Al Horford. Kerr noted that rotation changes are necessary depending on availability and team performance. “Guys come in and out of the rotation, depending on who’s available, how the team is playing,” he said.
Kuminga’s 2025-26 season has mirrored previous years, combining flashes of potential with inconsistent output. He averages 12.4 points and 6.3 rebounds per game while shooting 46.1% from the field but has struggled in key stretches, including a 1-of-10 performance in Cleveland.
After returning from knee tendinitis and a mini-skid, Kuminga has lost ground in Golden State’s rotation, with coach Kerr favoring Gui Santos in certain matchups. League sources suggest the Warriors are likely to explore trade options for Kuminga once he becomes eligible on January 15, a move that could reshape the roster.
Kuminga’s two-year, $46.8 million deal, with a team option, leaves Golden State flexibility to evaluate trade possibilities, especially if the forward cannot secure a consistent role. With the Warriors currently 13-12, reliance on Stephen Curry (27.9 PPG) and Jimmy Butler (19.5 PPG) has intensified, making rotation consistency crucial.
