While Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has been the subject of trade rumors, head coach Steve Kerr is telling him to stay ready for when his name is called. Kerr admits Kuminga's situation isn't ideal, but isn't ruling out change, he said, per the San Francisco Chronicle.
“It's tough because he's not really a short-minute player. I played a bunch of guys eight, ten minutes,” Kerr said. “JK is a guy who needs his rhythm. He's not a Gui [Santos], who's going to come in or Pat [Spencer], and just fly around, and play with great energy for four minutes, and come out. He needs some rhythm. He always has to stay ready.
“There's a pathway here, but right now, it's not there. But things change quickly in the NBA.”
While Kerr admits Kuminga is in a tough spot, he hasn't talked about extending the veteran's minutes anytime soon.
Steve Kerr makes ‘hard' confession about Jonathan Kuminga
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has been transparent about Jonathan Kuminga and the rumors surrounding his future with the team. Kerr didn't sugarcoat that Kuminga's future with the team remains bleak, especially without a role carved out for him this season.
“Everybody wants honesty. They don't want to be pandered to. They want to know what's what, but you have to deliver those messages with some empathy. It's a tough spot to be in,” said Kerr, per the Tom Tolbert Show, via Hoopshype. “…It's hard, and I just think it's important to acknowledge that to the players and try to understand that part of the business.”
Kerr also shared his perspective on whether the Warriors might look to make a trade.
“I know that Mike [Dunleavy] and his group are always looking at deals and what's out there, and nothing usually heats up until February,” said Kerr.
The Warriors defeated the Nets 120-107, improving to 17-18 on the season.
