There’s no end to the Golden State Warriors’ woes this season. And while Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III carry the season, the team and head coach Steve Kerr remain tied up with issues surrounding Jonathan Kuminga.
Currently, the focus remains on Kuminga’s recent back injury. With rumors around the Warriors star running rampant, fans turned to Kerr for answers — who had an interesting four-word response to his injuries.
Warriors HC Steve Kerr Drops a Curt Response to Question About Jonathan Kuminga’s Back Injury
During a recent press conference, Kerr was asked about Kuminga’s recent injury.
While admitting that Kuminga was injured before a game, Kerr kept his update brief. When asked about the injury’s impact and if it’ll linger, Kerr said: “I have no idea.”
Though Kuminga is currently listed as active, a lingering injury can only do more harm than good as the playoffs approach.
Of course, with Kuminga recently out of rotation, there were ample trade rumors surrounding the young player. Many believe Kerr and Kuminga’s differences have finally reached a peak, ultimately leading to Kuminga’s exit.
The team, however, has yet to confirm or deny these rumors.
Kerr himself has addressed leaving Kuminga out of rotation, explaining that it’s ‘tough’ to deal with a short-minute player like that.
“JK is a guy who needs his rhythm,” Kerr said. “He’s not like a Gui (Santos) who’s going to come in or Pat (Spencer) and just fly around and play with great energy for four minutes and come out. He needs some rhythm. He always has to stay ready. There’s a pathway there, but right now, it’s not there. But things change quickly in the NBA.”
One can also argue that Kuminga hasn’t been at the top of his game this season, which has ultimately fueled trade rumors. Analysts have questioned the Warriors’ locker room energy, emphasizing that this remains their final opportunity to secure Stephen Curry’s fifth title.
After missing the team’s 131-94 loss against the OKC Thunder, Kuminga was DNP against the Utah Jazz on Saturday.
Jimmy Butler III Opened Up About Kuminga’s Trade Rumors
While Kerr’s comments about Kuminga sparked further controversy, Butler remained positive in his outlook. The NBA veteran stated that while basketball will keep changing, Kuminga will always remain his brother.
“He’d better come to my house tonight, eat dinner, play some Uno, and some dominoes,” Butler said after their win vs. the Jazz. “That’s my brother, like, my brother and him, so I couldn’t care less if he’s out of the rotation. We hang out.”
While Butler’s comments clear out any rumors of animosity between teammates, one can agree that the Warriors need to make a decision about Kuminga. Reports have continued to suggest that he is unhappy with his role on the team, prompting the Warriors to explore a trade.
This season, Kuminga is averaging 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game while shooting 43.1% from the field.
Currently placed eighth in the Western Conference, the Warriors will play the LA Clippers next on Monday, January 5.
