Jonathan Kuminga Nearing Return to Warriors After Ankle Injury

OAKLAND, Calif. — Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is on the verge of returning from a significant ankle sprain that has sidelined him since January 4. Reporter Shams Charania of ESPN confirmed that the team is targeting Saturday’s home game for his comeback.

“Jonathan Kuminga is really close to a return,” an inside source told Charania. “He’s in the final stages of rehab and it’s unlikely he’ll play Monday in Charlotte. The Warriors are considering waiting until this weekend when they’re back at home for his return.”

Kuminga, 22, sustained a severe sprained right ankle in a game against the Dallas Mavericks. Prior to his injury, he demonstrated considerable promise, averaging 19.8 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists over his last 17 games. He shot 46.7% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc, with 17 consecutive games scoring in double digits, including three 30-point performances.

Despite his impressive performance, Kuminga’s return comes at a pivotal moment for the Warriors, who have recently adjusted their roster following a significant trade deadline move. In a one-on-one meeting held in Orlando, Warriors coach Steve Kerr discussed the importance of Kuminga’s reintegration into the team. “The main thing I want for JK is not to press when he comes back,” Kerr said, according to The Athletic. “He was playing the best basketball of his career before the injury, and it’s not going to happen the first night.”

Kerr emphasized that Kuminga will need time to adjust back into the rotation. He explained that the young forward should focus on his fundamentals rather than expecting to regain his previous performance levels immediately. “He’s going to have a lot on his mind,” Kerr added, advising Kuminga to take the process slowly.

As Kuminga prepares for his return, he is also preparing for free agency after this season. His camp previously indicated a desire for a $35 million annual salary during extension negotiations last year. Therefore, his performance in the coming games will be closely monitored.

Kerr has also encouraged Kuminga to learn from the Warriors’ veteran players and mentioned that he showed Kuminga plays of veteran forward Jimmy Butler during their meeting. “He’s the perfect guy for JK to emulate,” Kerr remarked. “What makes Jimmy special is that he doesn’t try to be special. He plays fundamental basketball.”

With his return looming, Kuminga must decide between continuing to play a supporting role to the Warriors’ established stars or pursuing a more prominent position elsewhere when free agency begins.