Jonathan Kuminga could get playing time with the Warriors after Jimmy Butler’s injury

The injury to Jimmy Butler could change things for Jonathan Kuminga with the Golden State Warriors. The 23-year-old forward, sidelined since December 18th, could regain his spot in the rotation after Butler tore his anterior cruciate ligament during the 135-112 victory against the Miami Heat Monday night.

Steve Kerr confirms Kuminga can become a factor again

When asked after the game about a potential return for Kuminga to the roster, coach Steve Kerr was direct: « Sure. Absolutely. » This statement is particularly notable given the tense situation between the player and the organization.

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Kuminga hasn’t played in 16 games. On January 15th, the first day he was eligible to be traded, the forward officially requested a trade according to ESPN. This request comes after weeks of speculation about a tacit agreement between Kuminga and management for him to stay on the bench while awaiting a trade before the February 5th deadline.

One of the major problems that led to Kuminga being sidelined was his poor fit with Butler and Draymond Green. These three players are all below-average 3-point shooters, which clogged the paint and limited the spacing necessary for Stephen Curry. With Butler out for the rest of the season, this spacing problem no longer exists.

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A physical profile the Warriors need

Kuminga brings a physical profile of 6’7″ and 225 lbs that the Warriors will sorely miss without Butler. He can defend multiple positions and offers the athleticism Golden State desperately needs. Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski will see their minutes increase, but neither brings the same defensive versatility or physical presence as Kuminga.

PLAYER PROFILE

Jonathan KUMINGA

Position(s): Power Forward

Height: 203 cm

Age: 23 years (10/06/2002)

Nationality:

Stats 2025-2026 / NBA

PTS

11.8

#154

REB

6.2

#72

AST

2.6

#145

This season, before being removed from the rotation, Kuminga averaged 11.8 points, 6.2 rebounds and 2.6 assists in 18 games. He started the first 12 games of the season and showed flashes of productivity before being demoted by Kerr.

The question remains whether the relationship can be repaired. The Warriors are still trying to trade Kuminga before the deadline, with reported interest from the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks. If no deal materializes, Golden State may have no choice but to reintegrate him into the rotation, despite the tensions of recent weeks.

With Jimmy possibly missing time, COULD you go to Kuminga if there is a need for that position?

KERR: « Sure. Absolutely. »

Is he ready? Practice and all those things?

KERR: « Yep. Yep. » pic.twitter.com/RhgNVGBwe0

— KNBR (@KNBR) January 20, 2026