The Jonathan Kuminga era in Golden State has officially come to a close - and with it, one of the more complicated developmental storylines of the Warriors’ recent run.
Kuminga, taken seventh overall in the 2021 NBA Draft, never quite found consistent footing in Steve Kerr’s rotation. At times, he flashed the raw athleticism and two-way upside that made him such a tantalizing prospect coming out of the G League Ignite.
But more often than not, he was caught in the middle of a franchise trying to balance two timelines - developing young talent while also chasing championships. That tightrope walk didn’t leave much room for growing pains.
Now, Kuminga gets his reset. The 21-year-old forward is headed to the Atlanta Hawks as part of a trade that also sends Buddy Hield east and brings Kristaps Porziņģis to the Bay.
According to reports, Kuminga and his camp were “shocked” by the destination - Atlanta wasn’t even on their radar. But in this league, when you ask out, you don’t always get to choose the landing spot.
Still, there’s a silver lining here for both sides.
For Kuminga, this is a clean slate. He goes to a Hawks team that’s been searching for defensive versatility and athleticism on the wing.
If they’re willing to give him the developmental leash the Warriors couldn’t afford, this could be the environment where he finally puts it all together. The tools have always been there - it’s about opportunity, consistency, and trust now.
From Golden State’s perspective, this is a clear pivot back toward maximizing the present. After swinging and missing on a potential blockbuster for Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Warriors chose to retool with Porziņģis, betting on his size, shooting, and playoff experience - even with the health risks that come with it. If he stays upright, Porziņģis gives them a much-needed frontcourt scoring punch and rim protection, two areas that have been inconsistent this season.
And while the trade closes the book on Kuminga's time in the Bay, it doesn’t appear to leave any bad blood behind. Draymond Green, one of the team’s vocal leaders, made a point to speak highly of Kuminga after their win over the Suns, wishing him well and reflecting on the growth he showed during his time with the Warriors. That kind of respect matters - especially from someone like Draymond.
In the end, this deal is less about what Kuminga didn’t become in Golden State and more about what both sides need right now. The Warriors are trying to squeeze one more title run out of the Curry-Draymond-Klay core.
The Hawks are trying to build something sustainable around Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. And Kuminga?
He’s trying to prove he’s more than just potential.
Now he’ll get his chance.