Ups and Downs from the Warriors Preseason

Kuminga Proves He’s All For The Warriors

Kuminga did well this preseason to bounce back from a controversial summer surrounding his contract negotiations. With trade rumors in the headlines , Kuminga’s passion was on full display. Not only did he impress in terms of scoring, but his ability to find the open man on the fast break was an impressive twist to his usual playing style. Averaging four rebounds per game, he looked like a more complete forward option who fits seamlessly into the offense of head coach Steve Kerr. Despite being ejected against Portland and being fined $35,000 for his actions towards an official, he showed emotion on the court, proving to Dub Nation that he’s a true Warrior at heart.

The Downs

The Turnovers Continue

The Dubs are once again facing the same issues that have set them back over the last few seasons. Mistakes that many thought were behind them have resurfaced. During their five preseason games, the Warriors committed a worrying 110 turnovers, averaging 22 per game. Kerr acknowledged the concerns, telling NBC Sports Bay Area:

“We definitely had a turnover problem throughout the preseason. We’ve got to improve. We need a couple of good days of practice before we head out to LA, but I’m confident we can. We should be fine.”

If they want to compete this season, cutting down on these costly errors has to be a priority.

Injury Problems

Injury concerns remain a major issue for the Warriors. For a team that relies so heavily on experience, minutes, and growth, staying healthy will be Golden State’s main focus this season. Guard Brandin Podziemski gave fans a scare in the preseason finale against the Clippers after exiting with a left hip contusion. Luckily, the injury appeared to be minor, but he will definitely be monitored closely in the coming weeks.

Two vital forwards in Kerr’s system, Jimmy Butler and Kuminga, both have ankle injuries and remain questionable for Tuesday night’s opener in LA. Moses Moody is sidelined with a calf injury, and the newly re-signed De’Anthony Melton is out indefinitely with a knee injury and will be re-evaluated in a few weeks.

Will these early injuries become a major concern for the Warriors’ season ahead?