The uncrowned dunk king on the Warriors roster, Jonathan Kuminga, is a potential star in the making. Currently in his fourth year, the young forward talent continues to amaze us with his athleticism and scoring abilities, recording back-to-back career highs lately.
However, news of the 22-year-old not being happy with his role on Golden State’s roster has often surfaced in the media. According to the Athletic, Kuminga had once even expressed losing faith in Coach Steve Kerr‘s ability to make him reach his full potential. Recent reports of the Warriors involving Kuminga in trade talks further annoyed the young forward. Nevertheless, JK might have the perfect opportunity to increase his stock in the upcoming months.
Why Jonathan Kuminga Fits the 2025 NBA Dunk Contest Bay Area
Bay Area’s Dunk King – Jonathan Kuminga
Tying his career-high 34 points in a win against the Suns, Kuminga is coming off back-to-back 30-point games. The 6-foot-7 forward has been on a tear, stepping up on the offense and even displaying his clutch gene via critical free throws. Kuminga is on a tour to silence all his naysayers.
Jonathan Kuminga over the last 2 games:
34 PTS – 10 REB – 5 AST – 58% FG
34 PTS – 9 REB – 3 AST – 60% FGTaking a leap.
pic.twitter.com/WHmlsFJhdY
— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 29, 2024
Amid all the speculations surrounding him being involved in potential trades, Kuminga might just have the ideal wow moment in the making. With the 2025 All-Star Weekend taking place in San Francisco, the Warriors forward holds the chance to showcase his elite dunking abilities. Looking at the mockery and criticism around the All-Star Dunk Contest in recent years, JK could leverage this occasion. What makes this even more special is that the Bay Area is hosting the NBA’s annual exhibition event this season.
Kuminga’s high-level agility and leaping abilities are no secret. The 2022 NBA champion might be the most physically gifted player on Golden State’s roster. Kuminga’s posterizing dunk on Christmas Day was one of the more impressive dunks this season. Hence, his participation in the dunk contest not only draws viewers but also helps him make a statement on his home court.
Can JK Flip the Switch?
Barely hanging at the .500 mark, the Warriors find themselves in a tough spot despite a great start to the 2024-25 season. While Stephen Curry continues to be the primary source on offense, Kuminga has shown that he, too, can help lift some of the load. Through 29 games, Kuminga is averaging 16.7 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 2.1 APG on 45.5% shooting from the field. The Warriors forward has three games with at least 30 points so far in the season. Kerr and Co. continue to acknowledge his remarkable growth over the years.
The Warriors have, for the longest time, shielded Kuminga from any kind of trade deals. But they have been unable to land a star player alongside Curry; the management may be compelled to involve JK in a trade soon. It is not the desired situation for both parties. Nevertheless, this might be the only solution on the table as Curry enters the latter stages of his prime. Owner Joe Lacob and the front management cannot afford to rebuild amid the two-time MVP’s pursuit for a fifth ring. Hopefully, Dub Nation will be able to get the best outcome possible in the coming months.
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