Warriors: Jonathan Kuminga needs to take a more assertive role in offense

The Golden State Warriors lost Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr. this offseason.

While they did try to replace their skill sets (signing Donte DiVincenzo and JaMychal Green) in free agency, the Dubs are undoubtedly going to expect more production from their rising stars to avoid any drop in production from their second unit.

The Warriors lost some talent this offseason and will look to supplement it with their prospects. Jonathan Kuminga is a name to keep an eye on.

Jonathan Kuminga, who had a successful rookie season by most metrics, will be expected to take another leap in the right direction, and he should be given the opportunity to showcase his abilities with Porter Jr. in Toronto.

Kuminga averaged 9.3 points per game and shot 51.3% from the field. Considering his playmaking and efficiency were concerns entering his rookie season, both of those, especially his scoring in just 16.9 minutes per game, should be considered wins.

When he get to the bucket, Kuminga’s efficiency took a massive leap. Within three feet, he shot 77.1% from the field, but those accounted for just 34.1% of his attempts. That fell drastically to 43.3% when he shot between 3-10 feet.

Kuminga’s athleticism gives him an instant boost and should allow him to feast around the bucket next season.

He showed off his abilities even more in the playoffs, more specifically against Memphis, the most athletic team Golden State faced. He shot 20-for-36 and averaged 10 points per game. Kuminga was a major boost off the bench for Golden State when they turned away from Kevon Looney.

19 years old, Kuminga will have a lofty ceiling, and he could be a key reason the Warriors both make the playoffs and compete for a second straight NBA Championship, but getting to the paint and near the bucket should be a major focal point of his game this upcoming season.

Coming off a less-than-desirable few performances at the 2K23 Las Vegas Summer League, Kuminga will hopefully see some year-over-year improvements early on in his second season in the NBA.