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Evaluating Jonathan Kuminga’s up-and-down Summer League to date

By Peter O'Keefe

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 08: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors shoots a technical foul shot against the LA Clippers in the first half during an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 08, 2022 in San Francisco, California. 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. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 08: Jonathan Kuminga #00 of the Golden State Warriors shoots a technical foul shot against the LA Clippers in the first half during an NBA basketball game at Chase Center on March 08, 2022 in San Francisco, California. 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. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Jonathan Kuminga’s upside on show

There are certain aspects where Kuminga is displaying his limitless potential, particularly in a setting where his combination of size and athleticism is even more of a standout. Here are four positives of his game so far in Summer League.

1. Drawing fouls

His ball-handling skills, in combination with his size and athleticism, make him an intimidating presence when entering the paint. He’s also proven he can suck defenders into fouls through up-fakes when he gets to this position.

The result is a plethora of trips to the line and a total of 22 free throw attempts in two games. This is something that can be a huge weapon for the Warriors going forward, with the team having ranked 26th in the league during the regular season.

2. Playmaking signs

Kuminga was given the opportunity to practically be the point guard against the Spurs, bringing the ball up and initiating most offensive possessions.

He began the game by executing a beautiful pick-and-roll with James Wiseman, attacking down the lane to draw the defender before providing his teammate with an easy alley-oop finish.

He had a number of nice playmaking possessions, including an important one in combination with Wiseman in the dying minutes. In another pick-and-roll situation, Kuminga did enough to draw both defenders before finding Wiseman for another dunk.

3. Defensive instincts

Kuminga flashed serious defensive potential in his rookie year. While it’s been inconsistent through two games in Summer League, he can be one of the best defenders in the tournament when he’s locked in.

The defensive versatility is what’s most exciting. He has the potential to guard perimeter players with good lateral quickness, combining with length and fast-twitch movements to close out on jump shots or protect the rim.

He can also switch on to bigger players, with the strength and vertical jump giving him the ability to compete in that position. He also projects as a fantastic help defender, coming off the weak side to protect the rim on opposing drives.

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