Jonathan Kuminga's Opening Night Performance Could Change Everything for the Warriors

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 119-109 in LA on Tuesday night during the second game of the 2025–26 NBA season. The stars were out, with Luka Doncic putting on a signature 43 points, nine assists, and 12 rebounds stat line in the Lakers' loss. Jimmy Butler led the Warriors with 31 points, five rebounds, and four assists.

While Butler and, of course, Stephen Curry (23 points and four assists) were magnificent, all the talk after the game was about the performance of the Warriors’ budding star, Jonathan Kuminga. 

Kuminga was the subject of much scrutiny and drama this offseason as he and his camp both attempted to land a big contract and get traded to a team that would give him a bigger offensive role. The Warriors weren’t able to find a trade that suited them and opted to sign Kuminga to a two-year contract extension.

Kuminga’s performance on Tuesday may have proven that decision right. Kuminga had 17 points, nine rebounds, and six assists while shooting 4-of-6 from deep. He also spent most of the night guarding Luka, who, despite dropping 43 points, was well-guarded.

The reason Kuminga’s opening night performance was so huge was that it really showed Kuminga’s maturity and improvement. In the first half, Kuminga looked like his old self, taking bad midrange shots and turning the ball over. 

In the second half, he came alive. Kuminga played within the Warriors' offensive flow, played solid defense, and was super active on the glass. 

It’s not the 17 points that should excite Warriors fans about Kuminga this season. It’s the nine rebounds and six assists. Kuminga averaged only 4.6 rebounds and 2.2 assists last season. Kuminga’s ability to contribute on the glass and make plays for his teammates could be what unlocks him as the perfect piece for Golden State.