The Atlanta Hawks have made a splash by acquiring one of the NBA's most talked-about trade targets just before the deadline. Jonathan Kuminga, formerly of the Golden State Warriors, is set for a new chapter in Georgia. However, the injury that kept him off the court in California will still bench him as the Hawks resume play after the All-Star break.
The Hawks addressed Kuminga’s condition on Wednesday, stating, “Forward Jonathan Kuminga, who sustained a left knee bone bruise while playing for Golden State at Dallas on Jan. 22, is progressing in his rehabilitation. He will be re-evaluated in approximately one week, and an update will be provided at that time.”
While a week might seem brief, Kuminga will still need to complete a clearance and reconditioning process to ensure he's fully ready for his Hawks debut without risking further injury.
This season has been a rollercoaster for Kuminga. He kicked off the year with the Warriors, featuring in 13 consecutive games.
But eventually, he found himself out of the rotation. Circumstances forced Steve Kerr’s hand, bringing Kuminga back for a 21-minute appearance against the Toronto Raptors on January 20.
Kuminga saw action again for nine minutes two nights later, which turned out to be his final game with the Warriors. After being sidelined for five games, he was traded to the Hawks.
The trade also brought Buddy Hield to Atlanta, while the Hawks sent Kristaps Porzingis to the Warriors as part of their deadline moves. This marks the end of Kuminga’s five-season stint with Golden State, where he averaged 12.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.5 assists, shooting 45 percent from the field and 32 percent from beyond the arc.
The Hawks are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday night, but Kuminga will miss at least the next four games. His return remains uncertain beyond that.