The Golden State Warriors made a significant move at the trade deadline, sending Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks. This decision comes after a rollercoaster journey for both the player and the franchise. Fans had been anticipating a trade involving Kuminga, and owner Joe Lacob finally addressed the deal.
In this trade, the Warriors also parted ways with Buddy Hield and brought in Kristaps Porzingis, aiming to strengthen their roster for a playoff push. Lacob shared insights into the Kuminga experiment, expressing that while he was a strong supporter of the young talent, agreeing to the trade was ultimately “not hard.”
“Everyone assumes a lot about that,” Lacob noted. “I liked him as a player and as a person. He showed potential at times, but it never fully came together, and injuries hit at the worst times.”
Lacob emphasized that the decision was strategic, saying, “We knew we had to make a move, but we weren’t going to just give him away. He’s talented, and many recognize that. We got something valuable in return, or we would’ve kept him.”
The Warriors had also been involved in discussions about Giannis Antetokounmpo, but the Kuminga-Porzingis trade emerged as their primary focus. Kuminga's five-year stint with Golden State ended as Lacob reflected on the relationship, acknowledging its ups and downs.
“I did like him. I like all our players, or we wouldn’t acquire them.
But it just didn’t work out. It seemed promising at times, but it was inconsistent,” Lacob explained.
Currently, the Warriors hold a 29-27 record, placing them eighth in the Western Conference. Their next challenge is a matchup against the Denver Nuggets on Sunday, as they aim to climb the standings.