The Golden State Warriors hunt for their next superstar besides Stephen Curry often put one man at stake. Jonathan Kuminga, a rising baller in the Bay, has been linked with trade talks ever since the Warriors decided against giving him an extension in the offseason. Still, the 22-year-old decided to motor through, even flourishing under Steve Kerr. However, now that the trade season has begun and the Bay seemingly sinking, is his time at Chase Center finally over?
Nothing can be said for certain, but his social media activity does hint at it. Usually, Kuminga is a man of few words on his profiles. But choosing “Show Me The Way” by Papa Wemba on his latest post could be a disguised message. Furthermore, his caption helps too. The dazzling forward posted three peace sign emojis, almost saying goodbye to San Francisco.
He even posted a memory lane of some of his moments from this season. Considering the Warriors were quick to act to trade for Dennis Schroder, it’s hard to rule out Jonathan Kuminga being part of another deal. But it surely comes as a surprise, with no prior warning or reports stating the same.
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The slasher had enjoyed a successful December, arguably being the most consistent scorer for the Golden State Warriors. The 22-year-old had a stretch of three straight games by scoring 20 points and a season-high 33 points against the Houston Rockets. For the season, Kuminga is the third-leading scorer for the Bay, averaging 15.4 points per game in his last 15.
Yet, no outlet has announced his departure. But the Dub Nation is beginning to feel anxious.
Warriors fans react to Jonathan Kuminga’s cryptic social media activity
There was a lot of confusion among Warriors fans watching Jonathan Kuminga’s recent post. The timing, when the Warriors are being linked to several trades, added to their anticipation. “Did he get traded!!?” one fan simply asked in the comments. However, thus far, nothing has been revealed.
On the contrary, it could be his way of highlighting optimism amidst a dreadful stretch of games for the Golden State Warriors. Before winning against Minnesota, the Bay had lost three straight games, including a 51-point demolition at the hands of the Memphis Grizzlies.
But that hasn’t stopped a few fans from hoping Kuminga is moving on. While the sensational talent produces great output for the Bay, he desires to remain a consistent starter. So far, he has had 15 games coming off the bench, including the two games since Dennis Schroder made his debut as a Warrior.
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Hence, one fan feels “JK I WILL MISS YOU, YOU WILL BE A STAR ELSE WHERE” thinking that the trade is inevitable. Even after their deal with the Nets, the Warriors are said to remain active. Competing in a competitive West, the franchise needs a spark that transforms their rocky season.
And fans seem to have a prediction. Another man who has a strained bond with his franchise is Jimmy Butler. He too remains without an extension with the Miami Heat. And Kuminga has long been professed as the prospect Pat Riley would want in exchange for the veteran guard that led them to two finals.
So one fan wrote, “Get ready to learn Miami”. In all fairness, the Heat Culture may suit the skillset Jonathan Kuminga boasts. Aside from being fierce on both ends, his driving prowess could be a great match for the system Coach Spo prefers to run. Moreover, an improved three-point shot could land the Heat a solid young core.
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At the same time, there was also some sadness. Several Warriors fans couldn’t fathom a possible trade happening. “What’s the caption mean please don’t tell me we traded you,” one comment reflected. After having spent nearly four years in the Bay, Kuminga had become a vital member of the roster. Furthermore, he was willing to earn an extension, fighting with his own patience.
But if the time has come to an end, the fans seem to be thankful to Jonathan Kuminga, hoping for him to succeed elsewhere. Do you think the Warriors may have traded him or is it nothing to be concerned about? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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Could Kuminga's departure be the spark the Warriors need, or a devastating loss for the team?
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