Jonathan Kuminga proved many critics wrong in the Golden State Warriors’ season-opening win over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Golden State Warriors successfully completed the first day of the 2025-26 NBA season, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in an impressive game.
The Warriors had a lot of outstanding players. Jimmy Butler was the team’s leading scorer with 31 points, and Stephen Curry also scored 23 points, including a goal late in the fourth quarter.
However, it was another star who received a lot of praise immediately after the game. Many fans praised Jonathan Kuminga’s performance, proving that he deserves to be the starter.
Draymond Green believes Kuminga proved himself right and performed when the pressure was on. But thanks to the little things he did, he was able to prove his critics wrong.
Jonathan Kuminga started the game poorly, only scoring about four points in the first half, and struggled to get his offense together.
But he really took over in the third quarter, scoring 13 points without missing a single shot.
What’s interesting about Kuminga’s performance is his efficiency from beyond the arc. Kuminga, never known for his great 3-point shooting, went 4-of-6 from deep.
This is exactly what Steve Kerr wants him to do. But more importantly, ESPN analyst Tim Bontemps was right when he said Kuminga’s skill set was a mismatch.
“He also needs to be a guy who can guard the ball well and hit open threes, and that’s just not his skill set.
“Sure, he can guard the ball, but he’s going to be a guy that’s comfortable taking a lot of catch-and-shoot threes.
“The fit is awkward. It’s going to be awkward. We all know that. I think it’s good that he’s showing up and trying to get along with everyone and it’s not that surprising…
So far, it’s safe to say that Kuminga has proven Tim Bontemps wrong. Because he did exactly what ESPN commentators said he couldn’t do.
As it stands, Kuminga is starting in place of Moses Moody, who is suffering from a minor injury.
However, many believe Kuminga is one of the Warriors’ best starters because he provides the physicality the Warriors need.
However, Kuminga’s place in the team is not guaranteed. Steve Kerr will use several different Warriors lineups, so he’ll have to make himself unstoppable.
So far, Kuminga is off to a strong start to the season. But if you want to become the star you know you can be, you need to show that you can do it on a regular basis.