The Golden State Warriors made the bold decision to start Jonathan Kuminga in the NBA playoffs. The 19-year-old had only started 12 regular-season games and had only played 15 minutes in a playoff game once. He was the youngest player ever to start a postseason contest. The move paid off, as the Warriors dominated the Memphis Grizzlies, winning 142-112.

Kuminga made the most of his opportunity, scoring 18 points on 8-10 shooting in 17 minutes. He helped the Warriors break a team record and get them a 2-1 series advantage. Only one other player has scored 15 points in a playoff game at a younger age: Kobe Bryant.

Kuminga also scored the most points in the playoffs for a teenager since 2004 Carmelo Anthony.

When the Warriors selected Kuminga with the seventh overall pick in the 2021 draft, it was seen as an interesting selection at best. After a solid season with G League Ignite, Kuminga looked like a very raw prospect that wouldn't be able to contribute until much later. So far, though, that has not been the case.

Kuminga became a valuable, versatile defender right away for the Warriors. He averaged 9.3 points per game on 51.3 percent shooting during the regular season. Golden State has found him a role that he has done well in while he works to become more than a role player.

While Jordan Poole establishes himself as the future face of the Warriors, Jonathan Kuminga will be right there alongside him. Both youngsters are talented enough to help their veterans achieve more success in the NBA playoffs.