Al Horford Talks About What It's Like to Play with Jonathan Kuminga

Now that the Golden State Warriors finally have a playable roster, we are seeing how the pieces fit. Of course, all of the returning players know how to play with one another. However, additions like Al Horford will need to figure out how they fit in the Warriors' offensive system. 

Luckily, Horford has a great basketball IQ and looks like he will fit in great. One player whose game could be unlocked by the addition of Horford is Jonathan Kuminga. 

After the Warriors' first preseason game, Al Horford spoke about what it is like playing with Jonathan Kuminga:

“I think it’s great, the way that he moves. How much pressure he generates on the rim. It is going to be great. I feel like with me and him out there, I’ll be able to give him some space. He probably won’t always have a guy, an extra defender there, and if he does, you know, we will be open…we’re gonna get really good shots…He’s the type of player, it’s fun to play with a guy like that. Because of the pace that he wants to play at, he wants to attack the basket. I actually enjoy playing that way.”

Because Kuminga doesn’t have the best outside shot, having three-point shooters on the floor with him is essential. When Kuminga has more room to operate, he thrives. Horford’s shooting can allow Kuminga ample space to attack the rim. 

So, while coach Steve Kerr has constantly complained about not being able to play Kuminga with Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, Horford could be the key that allows that lineup to thrive. With Draymond’s improved three-point shooting, could a lineup of Stephen Curry, Butler, Kuminga, Green, and Horford actually work in today’s shooting-heavy NBA? If that lineup can be successful, it would have all the scoring and defense an elite lineup would need.