Why Steve Kerr Benching Jonathan Kuminga Could Cost the Warriors More Than Just a Game
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr is no stranger to controversial decisions, but his latest move—benching Jonathan Kuminga in a crucial season finale—has raised serious eyebrows and ignited speculation about both his judgment and job security. After a disappointing 124-119 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, fans and analysts alike are questioning whether this was simply a tactical misstep or a sign of deeper issues within the Warriors’ locker room.
Kuminga Benched in Must-Win Game
Kuminga, a rising 22-year-old star with explosiveness and rebounding ability, was a DNP-Coach’s Decision for the first time since the 2023 Western Conference semifinals. Instead of seeing his usual minutes, Gary Payton II and Buddy Hield filled the rotation. The result? The Warriors were out-rebounded 42-25, including a brutal 9-0 difference in offensive boards—a stat that arguably sealed their fate.
Kuminga wasn’t sidelined due to injury. Kerr told him pregame that he wouldn’t be part of the initial rotation, and he’d “see how it goes.” Clearly, it didn’t go well.
Kerr’s Reasoning—and the Backlash
Kerr explained that the team had found a successful rotation since Jimmy Butler‘s arrival, suggesting that Kuminga’s style didn’t mesh well with the new lineup. He cited spacing concerns and praised other bench options like Hield and Payton. But those justifications haven’t satisfied fans or critics, many of whom are pointing to the rebounding deficit as a clear area where Kuminga could have helped.
Let’s not forget—Kuminga dropped 34 points and 10 rebounds the last time he faced the Clippers in December. Sitting that kind of production in a must-win game? Bold, if not reckless.
Is Steve Kerr on the Hot Seat?
The phrase “Steve Kerr fired” has begun trending among Warriors fans online. While Kerr is a decorated coach with multiple championships, this decision—paired with his recent comments about Kuminga’s fit—has led to whispers about whether the front office is fully aligned with his vision moving forward.
If the Warriors fail to make a deep playoff run, and especially if they’re ousted early by the Memphis Grizzlies in the Play-In, Kerr’s seat could go from warm to scorching.
Kuminga’s Response Shows Maturity
Rather than sulking, Kuminga stayed after the game to get shots up in an empty Chase Center. That level of professionalism and dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Stephen Curry even acknowledged that Kuminga could be a key factor against Memphis, saying, “If he’s out there, that’s a great way for him to make his presence felt.”
That’s the mentality of a young star who’s not letting ego get in the way of team success—a trait that should earn him more trust, not less.
What’s Next?
The Warriors now face a must-win showdown against Memphis, the NBA’s second-best rebounding team. If Kerr benches Kuminga again, and the rebounding issues continue, the blame will fall squarely on his shoulders. Worse yet, fans may be left wondering what could’ve been if the Warriors had simply trusted their young forward when it mattered most.
One thing’s for sure—Jonathan Kuminga is ready. Whether Steve Kerr will give him the chance to prove it remains to be seen.
