Jonathan Kuminga never found a long-term rhythm with the Warriors. After a short stint with the Atlanta Hawks, he’ll get a fresh start with the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Warriors forward Draymond Green went on his podcast to break down Kuminga’s reported two-year, $13 million contract and what that could mean for his playing time.
“My only worry for JK is that if it’s not working, you’re the first plug that gets pulled,” Green stated on “The Draymond Green Show.” “Nonetheless, that’s a lot of young talent … that’s a lot of athleticism.”
Kuminga will be paired with a star-studded backcourt in LaMelo Ball and Anthony Edwards. Both guards are 25 years old and averaged over 25 points per game last season.
“It’s a lot of young talent,” Green continued. “They’re going all in on the youth. I respect it. Here’s a deal where he’s betting on himself. There’s word on the street that he had another offer from the [Los Angeles] Lakers … I don’t know if that’s true. What I do know is he’s betting on himself here.”
Kuminga has agreed to a two-year contract that includes a player option for the second year. This allows him to hit unrestricted free agency again next summer.
If the 23-year-old plays well, he’ll be set up for a nice payday. If not, he’ll be in a similar boat as he was in this offseason.
“Apparently he’s been promised the starting four spot,” Green stated. “Now, here’s where those things get dicey. When you go to a team on a lower-level salary. And all of a sudden that starting lineup isn’t getting off to great starts. You are the one person making a lot less. Your salary ultimately determines how a team treats you.”
With the Warriors, spacing was the issue that led to Kuminga’s minutes ultimately going out the window. Now, Timberwolves coach Chris Finch will be tasked with fitting Kuminga into the rotation and seeing which combinations work best for the team’s young core.
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