Jonathan Kuminga is set to make his much-anticipated return to the court on Thursday as the Golden State Warriors face the Sacramento Kings. This will mark Kuminga's first appearance since suffering a right ankle injury on January 4. Over the past few weeks, Kuminga has been participating in scrimmages, preparing for his comeback. The Warriors have exercised caution with their dynamic forward, ensuring he is fully ready to rejoin the team.
Kuminga will come off the bench, as the Warriors have solidified their starting lineup during his absence. Golden State has experienced a surge in performance, winning 12 of their last 14 games, with a notable 12-1 record since acquiring Jimmy Butler. Kuminga's return comes at a time when the team is riding a five-game winning streak.
Prior to his injury, Kuminga was in peak form, averaging 20.5 points over 14 games. He delivered outstanding performances, scoring 34 points twice and recording 20 or more points in four out of six games before his injury sidelined him for 31 consecutive games. Head Coach Steve Kerr emphasized a cautious approach with Kuminga's return, ensuring a gradual reintegration into the team's dynamics.
"It's a really difficult thing when you are playing really well and have a key guy coming back," said Kerr.
Kerr's strategy aligns with Draymond Green's advice to Kuminga. Green has urged his young teammate to focus on his strengths rather than rushing his return in an attempt to prove his worth.
"You can't and you're not going to get it all back in one day," Green stated.
Additionally, Kuminga faces a contract situation, as he is set to become a restricted free agent this summer. Green acknowledged the challenge of balancing performance and contract aspirations.
"He does have the contract situation coming up. Naturally, you want to press a little bit because you don't get this far being someone who doesn't want to make those things happen… I've been in contract situations before. That is tough as hell to understand. You want to come back and make it all happen. You will drive yourself crazy," Green added.
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