The Warriors just can’t catch a break. Following an abysmal run in December, they have started the new year strong with two straight wins. Their latest one coming tonight against the Grizzlies. However, before they could fully soak in the victory, the Bay Area franchise suffered another massive setback when Jonathan Kuminga left the game midway because of an unfortunate injury. Turns out, he might be out longer than expected as Steve Kerr revealed his replacement while giving a major update on JK’s injury, reigniting trade buzz.

The incident occurred in the closing minutes of the first half as Kuminga sprained his right ankle by landing awkwardly after a block attempt. Well, Kerr revealed post-game that the sprain was “significant” and it will not be a day-to-day injury.

As a result, JK has been ruled out of tomorrow’s Kings clash and could miss more games, depending on the upcoming MRI results. Obviously, this is a massive blow to the team because Kuminga has been in incredible form so far, averaging 16.9 points and over five rebounds.

Apart from the disheartening update, the head coach confirmed Kuminga’s replacement until he returns, “JK has been playing the best basketball of his career. We’re going to miss him. But Kyle (Anderson) will fill in well.” Yes, Slo Mo will see a significant increase in minutes in Kuminga’s absence. Anderson is averaging 5.1 points off the bench.

Of course, the timing of JK’s injury is unfortunate because he has been in trade rumors for quite some time. Moreover, Joe Lacob is actively looking for a star to pair alongside Stephen Curry. And the only way to achieve that goal is by parting ways with the young forward in a trade. Now that Kuminga will likely miss some games because of the injury, Dub Nation would not hesitate to send him away for a bigger superstar. But who?

Jonathan Kuminga’s injury could ramp up the Warriors’ Jimmy Butler pursuit

Obviously, the first name that comes to mind is Jimmy Butler. Even before he shocked everyone by demanding a trade from Miami earlier this week, Butler had been linked to the Warriors. As per ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel, “The Warriors and Heat have held discussions with one another regarding Butler this season, league sources confirmed.”

The same report suggests that Pat Riley will only consider sending Jimmy to the Bay Area if the Warriors include Kuminga in the trade package. Earlier this year, Joe Lacob’s pursuit of stars like Paul George and Lauri Markkanen failed because of the franchise’s unwillingness to trade Kuminga, and other members of the young core. And they have recently been more open to putting these young stars in the trade block.

Well, this might be the perfect time to offer Kuminga to Riley because Butler is desperate to leave Miami. Moreover, he aligns with the Warriors’ win-now approach, and pairing him with Steph could make them instant title contenders. Do you think it’s time for the Warriors to trade Kuminga following tonight’s setback?