Jonathan Kuminga is seen as a future star for the Golden State Warriors. The explosive forward has All-Star upside and is young enough to usher in the next generation for Golden State once Stephen Curry begins to take a step back in terms of production. On Thursday, April 3, Warriors fans got a look at what a Kuminga-led Warriors could look like, as he put in a two-way performance in a win over the Los Angeles Lakers.
When speaking to the media after the game, Curry urged both the fans and the media to allow Kuminga the room he needs to develop as a player. The veteran superstar noted how Kuminga needs time to figure out his game and the type of player he's going to be at this level.
“I think we need to kind of just let this guy play basketball,” Curry said. “We don’t have to have a declaration after every game. We don’t have to be in a situation where we’re judging every minute he’s out there. I understand he’s next in line to come into his own as an NBA player, but I wish my fourth year wasn’t, ‘Was this the greatest game ever? Was it the [worst] game ever?’ He’s figuring it out. If we’re going to win at the highest level, he has to be a part of it.”
Kuminga showcased his versatility throughout Golden State's win over the Lakers. He played solid defense on Luka Doncic, LeBron James, and Austin Reaves. He also ended the night with 18 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists. Kuminga has a bright future ahead of him and will likely become a star in the Bay Area. However, for now, Curry is right; he needs to be allowed to develop without expectations. Fortunately, the trio of Curry, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler are big enough names that should attract all the media attention.
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This article originally appeared on Warriors Wire: Warriors' Stephen Curry calls for patience with Jonathan Kuminga