Jun 1

NYK108
IND125
Final

Jun 6

IND50-32
OKC68-14
ABC @12:30 AM UTC

Jun 9

IND50-32
OKC68-14
ABC @12:00 AM UTC

Jun 12

OKC68-14
IND50-32
ABC @12:30 AM UTC

Klay, Kerr heap praise on Kuminga for ‘magnificent' game

Not many good things can be taken from the short-handed Warriors' 124-123 collapse to the Utah Jazz on Wednesday at Vivint Arena. 

However, one bright spot in Golden State's loss was Jonathan Kuminga's play.

After playing 23 minutes against the Indiana Pacers on Monday, Kuminga played almost 30 minutes and made the most of his opportunity, something Warriors coach Steve Kerr noticed. 

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"JK was tremendous tonight -- fantastic," Kerr told reporters postgame. "He continued his recent play as far as defense, running the floor, and really being solid.

"But he added the scoring, getting to the rim, posting up a couple times, fantastic defensive play down the stretched when he blocked [Jordan] Clarkson's shot then got fouled."

The 20-year-old had 24 points -- on 10-of-13 shooting -- five rebounds, four assists, one steal and a block to cap off his "magnificent" night, even though the Warriors couldn't hold the lead down that stretch, Kerr said. 

Kerr wasn't alone in marveling at Kuminga's effective night; the 6-foot-7 forward's veteran teammate Klay Thompson noticed the type of night Kuminga was having as well. 

"His defense on Clarkson at the end there and his ability to finish around the rim," Thompson said after the game. "JK is a special talent and he showcased that tonight."

The 32-year-old added that watching Kuminga constantly evolve is "impressive" to watch and that he will continue to add layers to his game as he gets more playing time. 

"Just an incredible talent," Thompson concluded. 

RELATED: Why Kerr went to Moody before JK in Dubs' loss to Pacers

Despite the Warriors' disappointing record and inconsistency, it's becoming more apparent that Kuminga has what it takes to be a rotational piece for Kerr. 

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Warriors fans are hopeful that with more reps and minutes, Kuminga can become a game-changer and a constant bright spot in a rollercoaster 2022-23 NBA season. 

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