Did benching Jonathan Kuminga cost the Golden State Warriors their Playoff hopes? Head coach Steve Kerr remains silent on the matter

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerrhas sparked debate after benching Jonathan Kuminga in a crucial game against the Los Angeles Clippers. The Warriors lost 124-119, missing a chance to secure a better playoff position, and fans are questioning Kerr’s decision to leave the young forward out entirely.

Steve Kerr explained his decision by stating that Kuminga wasn't in the team he felt most comfortable playing. Given that the Warriors must defeat the Memphis Grizzlies in order to secure the seventh seed in the Western Conference, the decision caused some controversy.
Now that the playoffs are at stake, everyone is waiting to see if Kuminga will play this time. Kerr isn't providing any clues, though.


Before the Grizzlies matchup, Kerr declined to answer whether he spoke with Jonathan Kuminga about his future role. His silence speaks volumes, especially given his history with the 22-year-old.
Kerr has been known to challenge Kuminga, and opinions are split among fans. Some believe the coach is stifling the forward’s growth, while others think the tough approach will benefit him long-term.

Sitting Kuminga in high-stakes games has led to speculation about his place on the team. But if the Golden State Warriors plan a deep playoff run, they’ll need every available player to contribute—meaning Kuminga could still have a role to play.
For now, Kerr’s decisions remain under scrutiny, and fans will be watching closely to see if Kuminga gets his chance when it matters most.

Coach Steve Kerr opted not to play Jonathan Kuminga in their must-win game against the Los Angeles Clippers, a decision that contributed to their overtime loss and Play-In Tournament fate. After the game, Kerr explained that he went with a rotation he felt more comfortable with, including Gary Payton II over Kuminga.
Kerr acknowledged Kuminga’s impact this season but emphasized lineup fit as the deciding factor. “The lineup with Jimmy [Butler], Draymond [Green], and JK doesn’t work—we need spacing,” he said. Kuminga remained active, staying warm on the stationary bike, but never saw the floor.
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This move raises questions about Kuminga’s future with the Warriors. His inconsistent fit alongside key players and this high-stakes benching suggest his role—and possibly his tenure in Golden State—could be nearing an end.