Golden State Warriors: 3 Keys to Jonathan Kuminga’s development

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 15: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a photo during the 2021 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on August 15, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 15: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors poses for a photo during the 2021 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on August 15, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Joe Scarnici/Getty Images)
2 of 4
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Arturo Holmes/Getty Images)

Golden State Warriors need Jonathan Kuminga to develop as a passer

To be a star in today’s NBA, you need to be able to do a wide array of things. It’s hard to be a one-dimensional player in a league that is being dominated by versatility. Fortunately, versatility is one thing that made Jonathan Kuminga such an exciting prospect.

Kuminga is a 6’7″ forward  (who is likely still growing) with adequate ball-handling skills. His ability to take the ball up the floor and put on a move is something that has scouts and fans super excited. Of course, his cross-over into a dunk was the highlight of the Las Vegas Summer League.

As of now, Kuminga mostly uses his handle as a way to get to the rim. But, the Golden State Warriors will be hoping for Kuminga to begin utilizing his skills to become an elite playmaker and shot creator.

He averaged just 2.0 assists in Summer League and 2.7 in the G-League. It is clear that Kuminga can generate quality looks for his teammates and he flashed some natural court vision during his time with the Ignite.

While Kuminga will need to expand other aspects of his game, polishing his playmaking chops will allow him to take a major leap forward.