Coming into the 2021 season, Jonathan Kuminga had his fair share of doubters. The Golden State Warriors rookie had the physical tools and attributes to be successful, but he was considered to be a raw prospect. Fans wondered where he would fit in a contending roster like the Dubs.

As it turns out, though, the rookie is ready for that challenge and then some. While his stats during the Warriors' game against the Nets weren't impressive, Jonathan Kuminga has certainly done enough to garner the respect of Kyrie Irving, as the latter gave his jersey to the rookie. (via ESPN)

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Kuminga found himself going back-and-forth between the main team and the Warriors' G-League affiliate early in the season. Recently, though, the rookie has carved himself a role in the Warriors rotation. His high-energy style of play and good defensive instincts have earned him a bench spot.

The Warriors' game against the Nets turned out to be a barnburner, as both teams traded blows against each other. In the end, the combined efforts of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson propelled the Dubs to a win to keep them at second place in the West.

After a scintillating start to the season, the Warriors have cooled off significantly. Curry's struggles along with Thompson are the main culprits, of course. However, this team certainly has more than enough firepower to pull out games when the two are struggling. The Warriors will likely be counting on Kuminga and the rest of the bench crew to pick up the slack when their main guns are firing blanks.