Warriors Seek to Wrap Road Trip Amid Kuminga Recovery Uncertainty

NEW YORK, March 6, 2025 — The Golden State Warriors will face the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night, concluding a challenging five-game road trip. The Warriors are aiming to strengthen their playoff position in the Western Conference, currently sitting as the sixth seed following the recent acquisition of six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler.

Since Butler’s arrival in February, the Warriors have surged, boasting a 9-2 record. However, a significant player remains sidelined: Jonathan Kuminga, who has not participated since Jan. 4 due to an ankle injury sustained against the Memphis Grizzlies.

The team’s injury report confirmed Kuminga will be out again for the matchup against the Nets. His absence has sparked frustration among fans, as many are eager for his return after a two-month recovery. Kuminga is having a standout season, averaging a career-high 16.8 points, five rebounds, and 2.2 assists.

On social media, fans voiced concerns about Kuminga’s prolonged absence. One user remarked, “This is a little wild with Kuminga… 2 calendar months he missed last game.” Another suggested the Warriors may be waiting to reintroduce him for the playoffs, noting, “I think the Warriors are not going to play Kuminga until close to the playoffs.”

Coach Steve Kerr offered a reassuring update about Kuminga’s recovery, indicating that the injury turned out to be more serious than initially assessed. In a press conference, Kerr stated, “No setback. (Kuminga’s) injury itself was more serious than anyone realized… It does feel like he’s getting close.”

Kuminga’s current absence marks his 29th consecutive game missed. He originally injured his ankle while blocking a shot on Jan. 4. Despite participating in full-court scrimmages recently, Kerr could not confirm his availability for Saturday’s home game against the Detroit Pistons. “I can’t [confirm],” Kerr said. “That would just be speculation on my part right now.”

The Warriors, who return to Chase Center after their trip, are optimistic about reinforcements. They currently hold a 17-12 record in Kuminga’s absence and are eager for him to regain his form before the playoffs.

“The main thing I want for JK is to not press when he comes back,” Kerr emphasized. Kuminga had been enjoying one of the best stretches of his career prior to his injury, scoring double digits in 17 consecutive games, including three outings with over 30 points.

Kuminga’s performance before his injury solidified his status as the Warriors’ second-leading scorer behind star player Stephen Curry. Kerr highlighted Kuminga’s ability to emulate Butler’s disciplined playstyle, stating, “He’s the perfect guy for JK to emulate… attacking the rim, nothing there, jump stop, pass the ball.”

As the Warriors prepare for the final stretch of the season, questions loom over how Kuminga will reintegrate into a team that has seen significant changes. His return could be pivotal as the Warriors look to gear up for the playoffs.