October 20, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr (right) talks to forward Jonathan Kuminga (00) during the third quarter against the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images Kyle Terada-Imagn Images

ESPN Star Urges Jonathan Kuminga to Leave Steve Kerr, Warriors

Originally posted on New Orleans Pelicans on SI
By Logan Struck | Last updated May 13, 2025 3:40 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors have lost three consecutive games to the Minnesota Timberwolves to fall behind 3-1 in their second-round playoff series. However, Jonathan Kuminga has done all he can to avoid any blame.

The 22-year-old forward has had a challenging few weeks, from logging DNP-Coach's Decisions to playing 30+ minutes in a playoff game, but he has strived to make a difference when given the opportunity.

In the last three games, Kuminga has averaged 23.7 points and 3.7 rebounds while shooting 59.5% from the field and 44.4% from three-point range.

Jonathan Kuminga has recorded 20+ PTS in back-to-back games off the bench.

The first Warrior to do so since Jordan Poole. pic.twitter.com/2nKdNldtRR
— Real Sports (@realapp_) May 13, 2025

Kuminga has taken his game to the next level in Steph Curry's absence over the last three games, and even though they have lost all three, the fourth-year forward is quickly reviving his career.

While Kuminga is playing great now, the young forward is entering restricted free agency this offseason, and nobody is sure whether or not the Warriors will try to bring him back. ESPN analyst and former New Orleans Pelicans center Kendrick Perkins believes Kuminga should get as far away from Golden State as possible.

"I hope Kuminga get the hell away from Steve Kerr," Perkins posted on X. "He’s not the Coach for this young talented and Athletic young Star. He really need an opportunity to spread his wings. Kerr really had this man outta of the rotation."

I hope Kuminga get the hell away from Steve Kerr. He’s not the Coach for this young talented and Athletic young Star. He really need an opportunity to spread his wings. Kerr really had this man outta of the rotation.
— Kendrick Perkins (@KendrickPerkins) May 13, 2025

Kuminga and the Warriors are in an interesting spot this offseason, but Perkins is not alone in this idea of him leaving Steve Kerr and Golden State. Many people would like to see what Kuminga can do in a new environment, especially after everything he has faced under Steve Kerr.

This article first appeared on New Orleans Pelicans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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