Golden State Warriors: Is the risk too high for Ignite forward Jonathan Kuminga?

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 18: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the G League Ignite shoots during a G-League game against the Westchester Knicks at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on February 18, 2021 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 18: Jonathan Kuminga #0 of the G League Ignite shoots during a G-League game against the Westchester Knicks at AdventHealth Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on February 18, 2021 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. /
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With the rumors surrounding UConn’s James Bouknight to the Thunder at No. 6 becoming more of a reality, the Golden State Warriors may be forced to make a tough decision relating to G-League Ignite forward Jonathan Kuminga.

The Golden State Warriors may have a chance to draft Jonathan Kuminga at No. 7 if the Thunder pass on him, but with him being a riskier play than other options, should the Dubs take the chance?

With the Golden State Warriors gaining little traction in trade talks, there’s potential Jonathan Kuminga may fall to No. 7. Is he worth the risk?

There’s a strong case to be made that Golden State should pass on Kuminga, but at the same time, there’s no denying his upside and how he may fit alongside James Wiseman to become the next dynamic Bay Area duo.

In 13 games with the G-League Ignite, Kuminga averaged 15.8 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. His rebounding and scoring won’t be a problem, but the part that makes him a high risk is centered around his efficiency.

Kuminga shot under 40 percent from the field and under 30 percent from deep in the 13 games he appeared in. That’s numbers are concerning as there may be concerns regarding the mechanics of his jump shot.

"“Inconsistent shooter who’s never had good percentages despite looking comfortable and confident from deep range, both off the catch and dribble. Has subpar touch away from the basket,” The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor wrote."

A top-five prospect coming out of high school, Kuminga passed on college to immediately make a name for himself and cash in on his basketball talents. The 6-foot-8 forward with a 6-foot-11 wingspan will again look to be among the best in his class.

However, his stock may be slipping. A few weeks ago, the top-six prospects felt like a lock. Now, Kuminga is looking more likely to drop outside the top six than a player like Florida State’s Scottie Barnes.

While Kuminga has potential given his athleticism, the fact that he’s struggling to shoot efficiently is concerning enough to consider passing on him. With the upside clear, if Kuminga drops, the Warriors should take the risk.

An ultra-explosive athlete with the ability to mold into either a small-ball four or an athletic three, Kuminga checks most of the boxes. The only problem may be the nature of the Warriors timeline and if they’d prefer a player like Davion Mitchell, a defensive-minded guard that could immediately contribute.

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If that’s the case, expect Golden State to look elsewhere, but with 20-year-old James Wiseman on the roster, the Dubs should look to bring in the future with this pick. Kuminga may very well be that future, especially if they feel they can make him an efficient scoring option.