Golden State Warriors: Jonathan Kuminga can learn from vets

The decision to select Jonathan Kuminga with the No. 7 overall NBA Draft pick is one that will come down to how successful the Golden State Warriors are in helping him unlock his full capabilities. This is a high-risk, high-reward scenario where the Dubs will have the challenge of helping Kuminga hit his ceiling or face the consequences.

Kuminga is an exciting, but rough around the edges prospect. His potential is undeniable but ensuring he hits all of the checkpoints in his development is not going to be an easy task. Especially for a team that is juggling championship aspirations and maturing multiple young prospects.

The Golden State Warriors have curated a strong learning environment for Jonathan Kuminga to reach his full potential.

In terms of surrounding Kuminga with veteran players who can guide him along the way — the Dubs get an A++. Names like Draymond Green, Andre Iguodala, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins and even Otto Porter Jr. can provide the blueprint to success for the teenage lottery pick.

Kuminga should be prioritizing defense in his rookie season. His raw ability to score at the rim and handle the ball as a point forward will come naturally. Developing into an elite defender, however, will take time and understanding of the NBA.

Green is perhaps the first man who will be able to benefit Kuminga. He trademarked the small-ball center style that has revolutionized basketball and Kuminga can replicate Green’s versatility and intelligence. Learning from a former Defensive Player of the Year is one hell of a way to get started in this league.

Things get even better when looking at the rest of the supporting cast. A guy like Iguodala will be perfect to mentor Kuminga as he also shares a similar physical build. What’s more, Iggy will be more focused on being a veteran leader than Green — who has his own responsibilities to worry about rather than teaching a rookie.

Meanwhile, Wiggins and Porter provide the mold for how Kuminga can use his length on defense to disrupt opponents. Becoming a menace on the perimeter will make Kuminga an incredibly useful asset for the Warriors.

It is going to be a long journey for Kuminga but he should be grateful to have so many skilled veterans to hold his hand along the way.