Warriors forward Draymond Green addressed several topics related to the team in his latest podcast, including an upcoming decision on restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga (hat tip to BasketNews).
Kuminga was an impact player for Golden State early in the season, but his role diminished after the team traded for Jimmy Butler in early February. His minutes declined once he returned from an extended absence caused a severe right ankle sprain, and he was barely used in the playoffs until injuries to Butler and Stephen Curry opened up opportunities.
The fourth-year forward is only 22 and provides athleticism and physicality that the Warriors need. However, there are concerns about playing him alongside Green and Butler because none of them are accomplished three-point shooters.
Green admitted it would be a “huge financial commitment” to bring back Kuminga, who is likely to get a significant offer if he reaches the open market. He also singled out Kuminga for dealing with the uncertainty surrounding his playing time and for thanking coach Steve Kerr in his exit interview for helping him develop as a player.
“I love the way he handled it … that was such a responsible, great, well-thought answer,” Green said. “He will get paid here, or he will get paid somewhere else.”
Green talked about the team’s collection of young talent in general, also mentioning Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Gui Santos and Quinten Post. He said they all made progress during the season, but acknowledged that several of them may not return.
“When I look at our young guys, they all show promise,” Green said, “… but just off sheer numbers and the way this business works, probably not all will be back.”
It was an up-and-down season for the Warriors, who started off slowly, then surged once they acquired Butler. They narrowly missed a top-six spot in the West, then defeated Memphis in the play-in tournament and Houston in the first round before being ousted by Minnesota in five games.
Green expects his team to be back in title contention next season and said he, Curry and Butler will provide input to management on possible offseason moves.
“You just got to have a conversation … what can be seen from the stands or from some numbers — it ain’t always what it seems,” he said. “We’ll be in the weeds … trying to make it all make sense. The goals will be the goals — trying to win a championship. I stand on that 100%.”