Overview
- Kuminga was tossed in the final seconds of the first half after a no-call on a drive, approaching the referee, clapping in his face and making contact in what was the first ejection of his NBA career.
- Before exiting, he logged 18 minutes with seven points, six rebounds and four assists in the 118-111 victory over Portland.
- Postgame, he said the play involved a trip or clip to his right ankle that triggered a flashback to last season’s injury, noting it hurt a bit but that he felt fine.
- Kerr praised Kuminga’s performance and intensity, saying he didn’t mind the ejection and “kind of liked it,” highlighting the forward’s activity on the glass and floor-running.
- With veterans out, rookie Will Richard started and produced 13 points and six rebounds, drawing Kerr’s endorsement that he would not hesitate to use him in the regular season.