The Golden State Warriors are heading into one of their biggest games of the season — a winner-take-all Game 7 against the Houston Rockets — and Jonathan Kuminga remains a major question mark.
Once seen as a cornerstone of the franchise’s next generation, Kuminga’s role has all but vanished. He hasn’t played a single minute in Games 4, 5, or 6 of the series. And if things don’t change for Game 7, this could mark the quiet end of his Warriors tenure.
Kuminga’s Rotation Role Disappears at Crucial Time
Kuminga, now 22, came into the season with high expectations and flashes of the potential that made him a lottery pick. But that promise has dimmed over recent months, particularly since Golden State acquired veteran star Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline.
As Butler was integrated into the starting lineup, Kuminga’s playing time became the casualty. A string of DNP-CDs (Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision) late in the regular season signaled that his spot in the rotation was far from secure.
Though Kuminga did start one playoff game earlier in this series while Butler was sidelined with a pelvic injury, that window closed quickly. As soon as Butler returned, Kuminga was pushed back to the bench — and he’s stayed there.
To make matters worse, he missed Game 5 entirely due to a migraine. While head coach Steve Kerr clarified that Kuminga is healthy now and available to play, his status remains unclear.
Steve Kerr: “Everything Is on the Table”
Following the Warriors’ 115–107 loss in Game 6 — a performance marked by offensive struggles and defensive breakdowns — Kerr was asked directly whether Kuminga could be part of the plan for Game 7.
“Everything is on the table,” Kerr said.
That’s a vague answer, but it opens the door — however slightly — to Kuminga getting a chance to contribute. And Golden State may need to shake things up. The offense has looked out of sync, and the Rockets’ size and energy have given the Warriors problems. Kuminga, with his athleticism and physicality, could potentially offer a spark in that regard.
What’s at Stake for Kuminga?
For Kuminga, Game 7 is more than just another playoff contest. If he doesn’t play and the Warriors lose, he may have already suited up for Golden State for the last time.
The organization will face big decisions in the offseason, especially if they fall short in the first round. With Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and now Butler forming the veteran core, the front office may look to move younger assets — including Kuminga — in favor of win-now help.
And while his talent is undeniable, his inconsistency and apparent mismatch with Kerr’s system may prompt the Warriors to shop him in the trade market.
Warriors Must Answer the Call
For now, all attention is on Game 7. Golden State blew a 3-1 series lead, and Houston returns home with all the momentum. With the series tied 3-3, the Warriors are facing a do-or-die moment — and every rotation decision could make or break their season.
Steve Kerr has often favored experience in these moments, but if the offense continues to falter, he may not have the luxury of playing it safe.
Kuminga may not know when — or if — his number will be called. But if it is, he’ll need to be ready. This could be his shot at redemption. Or his quiet farewell.
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