Jonathan Kuminga has been a standout performer for the Golden State Warriors this season. The third-year forward has established himself as a core part of Steve Kerr‘s starting unit and is quickly proving one of the primary options on the offensive end.
It’s no surprise, then, that Draymond Green urged the front office to keep the emerging forward out of trade discussions, even if the returning player was going to be LeBron James. That’s some high praise for Kuminga from a player who’s won four championships and is close friends with LeBron.
“When I talked to Joe on the phone and we were discussing what we have to give up,” Green told the TNT announcing crew during the All-Star game. “I said if it’s (Jonathan) Kuminga then the answer is no.”
It’s worth noting Kuminga’s camp reported he had “lost faith” in Kerr earlier in the season. There were rumors of him potentially being available on the trade market. Those rumors have quickly evaporated, though.
Now, Kuminga is viewed as a legitimate building block for the Warriors’ future. He’s already showing signs that he’s a future All-Star and can be a featured scorer for a contending team. Golden State ultimately struck out on acquiring LeBron. Fortunately for them, their young core is starting to flourish, and that’s going to ensure a bright future for the franchise.
