Now that he’s officially back in the fold, Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga is ready to build off his promising end to the 2024-25 NBA season.
Specifically, the 22-year-old hopes to refine the chemistry he cultivated with veteran star Jimmy Butler. Speaking to reporters during his media session on Thursday, Kuminga acknowledged the crucial experience he gained playing with Butler in Golden State’s Western Conference semifinal loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves last season.
“I think it’s very important that we’re here now, early, trying to figure each other out,” Kuminga said. “And I feel like we actually did [figure each other out] going through that series.”
When Stephen Curry suffered an injury in Game 1 that ultimately ended his season, the Warriors called on Kuminga to help plug the gaping hole left in their offense. The Timberwolves prevailed in five games, but Kuminga led Golden State in series scoring and shot over 54 percent from the field, while Butler led the team in assists.
That duo figures to play a huge role in the Warriors’ upcoming 2025-26 season, and Kuminga wants to do his part in helping his connection with Butler flourish even more.
“It’s very easy and simple to play with Jimmy,” Kuminga said. “And we actually get to sit down more now. I get to go ask him certain questions. How does he like to play? What does he like? I feel like us having a lot of time together, me being healthy, him being healthy, him being here from day one training camp-wise…it’s going to help us figuring out certain things about each other going forward.”
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