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Warriors Maintain Jonathan Kuminga Bench Role as Playoff Series Begins

Despite his potential impact against Houston, Kuminga remains out of Steve Kerr's rotation while trade and contract uncertainties loom.

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Jonathan Kuminga of the Golden State Warriors and head coach Steve Kerr stand on the sideline in overtime against the Houston Rockets at Toyota Center on Nov. 2, 2024, in Houston.

Overview

  • Jonathan Kuminga was benched for Game 1 of the Warriors' playoff series against the Rockets, marking his third consecutive game without playing.
  • Coach Steve Kerr cited lineup spacing concerns as the reason for Kuminga's exclusion, particularly in lineups featuring Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green.
  • General Manager Mike Dunleavy previously suggested Kuminga could contribute in the series, but Kerr's current stance suggests no immediate change in his role.
  • Kuminga's restricted free agency, combined with the NBA's Base Year Compensation rule, complicates potential sign-and-trade scenarios for Golden State.
  • Speculation about Kuminga's future with the Warriors continues, with reports suggesting a potential offseason departure via trade.