The Warriors have looked like a completely different team since acquiring Jimmy Butler. Getting rid of the initial season struggles, they have won six of their last seven games and climbed to the eighth seed in the West standings. Sure enough, they hope to continue that momentum tonight as they go head-to-head against the Magic. And the Bay Area team’s chances are looking strong as their superstar Stephen Curry is ready to take on the hardwood. But one key player is yet to take centre stage as the latest report raises concerns!

Well, Steph has been battered and bruised all season long, playing through knee, hip and even ankle issues. But he has somehow stayed available for the majority of the games. So far, the ‘Baby-Faced Assassin’ has missed only nine games due to injury woes. Fortunately, he will be available to suit up tonight, as his name is not on the injury report.

Of course, that is a huge boost for the Warriors because Stephen Curry has clearly been their best player all year, averaging 23.3 points and over six assists. Moreover, he seems rejuvenated and motivated since partnering with Butler. Even Steve Kerr admitted it, “I think the trade has given us a chance. Steph feels that; our fans feel it.” The numbers prove it.

Since the trade, Stephen Curry’s scoring average has increased to 27 points per game. Hopefully, he will continue that form tonight. But while Steph’s availability brings relief to Dub Nation, Jonathan Kuminga’s health continues to cause worry. He has not played in an NBA game since January 4, after suffering a sprained ankle during the Grizzlies clash.

As expected, JK will remain sidelined for tonight’s game as the Warriors open their road trip. As per veteran reporter Anthony Slater, Kuminga is still waiting for the final green light from Rick Celebrini before he is cleared to play.

However, the good news is that he has begun five-on-five scrimmages and is in the final stage of return. There is a chance that the forward makes a comeback sometime in the middle of the team’s road trip that ends on March 6 in Brooklyn. Meanwhile, big man Trayce Jackson-Davis’ availability is also uncertain as he is listed as questionable due to an illness. He had already missed the last two games and could miss his third straight tonight.

While Kuminga’s timeline remains uncertain, Steve Kerr has already begun planning for his return.

Jonathan Kuminga nearing return as Steve Kerr begins preparation for reintegrating him to the lineup with Jimmy Butler

Although Kuminga will not play tonight, he is likely to return soon. As per Steve Kerr’s statement this weekend, “He had a good scrimmage yesterday with some of our younger guys and coaches. It’s progressing each day… It’s a huge step.” Sure enough, the head coach has already begun planning how he will utilize Kuminga in the lineup now that Butler is in the squad.

Turns out, Kerr had a film session with JK, familiarizing him with Jimmy’s game, “[We watched] his film, but also showing some of Jimmy’s stuff, what Jimmy’s doing right now because I think he’s the perfect guy for JK to emulate.”

Playing the same position, Jimmy and Kuminga have a lot in common, and Kerr wants the young forward to learn from the veteran star. Of course, Butler is a proven superstar with vast playoff experience, and the Warriors have a similar vision for Kuminga. So, Jimmy might be the perfect mentor for him.

Meanwhile, Jimmy is also looking forward to sharing the court with the high flyer. Revealing his thoughts on Kuminga’s reintegration to the team, the former Heat star said, “I think it’s going to be easy. Hella athletic. Can shoot it. Can score in a multitude of ways. Can definitely guard. I think he’s going to come back and do what he’s been doing. My job is to make it even easier on him.”

Kuminga was averaging an impressive 16.8 points and five rebounds before the injury. And if he continues that form once he returns, the Warriors could become legitimate title contenders. But first, they need to focus on getting the job done tonight and extending their winning streak by defeating the Magic. Do you think they can do it?