The Golden State Warriors are starting Jonathan Kuminga for their Thursday night game against the Dallas Mavericks, according to coach Steve Kerr. Kevon Looney, who had started in the previous game, will be moved to the bench.
Kuminga, the seventh overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, has shown flashes of potential in his limited playing time this season. He has averaged 6.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in just under 15 minutes per game.
The decision to start Kuminga comes as the Warriors continue to deal with injuries to key players such as Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. The team has also been without James Wiseman, the second overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, who has been out since December with a knee injury.
Kerr has been impressed with Kuminga’s development and believes that he is ready for the challenge of starting in the NBA. “He’s really growing as a player,” Kerr said. “He’s got great physical tools, he’s got a great feel for the game, and he’s a quick learner.”
The Warriors will be looking for a win against the Mavericks, who are also dealing with injuries to key players such as Luka Doncic and Kristaps Porzingis. The game is scheduled for 10 p.m. ET on Thursday and will be televised nationally on TNT.
Source: NBA