The Golden State Warriors suffered a 119-124 loss against the LA Clippers in an all-important game that went into overtime,
It was one of the most entertaining games of basketball and saw multiple lead changes deep into the game before the LA Clippers stole the win on the road to seal their playoff spot.
Steph Curry who had already stated the importance of the game put up 36 points, but his effort proved to be valiant.
Jimmy Butler also had a good game as he added 30 points and nine assists, while youngster Brandon Podziemski scored 19 points and put on a great show against the Cliippers.
While fans were already not happy with the result for the Golden State Warriors, Steve Kerr made another decision that is expected to split the fanbase.
Kerr gave Jonathan Kuminga a DNP for their game
Jonathan Kuminga is one of the Dubs’ best young players and he has always been their important weapon, which is why they have not even used him as an asset to trade for players.
However, the fact that he was dropped in a massive game for the franchise has been a questionable decision.
Speaking in his post game press conference, Kerr said: “We’ve just found a group since Jimmy got here that we’re pretty comfortable with.
“Both [Gui Santos] and JK have been really impactful players for us. It doesn’t mean they’re out of the loop going forward, this is just how this game played out.”
Kuminga had been informed about his role, but was not made aware if he would get minutes at all or not.
“I just told him in the walkthrough [that we were gonna not go to the usual rotation in the first quarter]… I didn’t tell him he wasn’t going to play cause I wasn’t sure if he was going to play or not,” said Kerr.
Jonathan Kuminga can be a useful player for the Warriors
Kuminga has had a season full of injuries this time around, but is still managed is still averaging 15.3 PPG on 45.4% shooting from the field.
After a career year last year, Kuminga was expected to return with another big campaign once again.
The Jimmy Butler trade has elevated the entire team, but Kuminga’s minutes have tragically reduced a proof of that would be the 19.2 minutes per game that he plays now, something which is lesser than his career average.
Next season will be his last year as part of the Warriors as he has not signed an extension yet.
This is not the first time, he has had his minute cut by Kerr and if this time the Dubs coach does not take control, he could lose one of his finest young players.
