Golden State Warriors ’ Stephen Curry had a clear message for Jonathan Kuminga after Jimmy Butler’s injury in Game 2 against the Houston Rockets. With Butler sidelined due to a pelvic injury, Kuminga saw his most significant playing time in weeks, and Curry emphasized the young forward’s need to shake off the rust quickly.
Jonathan Kuminga’s return to the rotation after Jimmy Butler
Jonathan Kuminga played 26 minutes in Game 2, his highest since March 17 against the Denver Nuggets. His stat line included:
- 11 points
- 4/12 shooting from the field
- 3 rebounds
- 2 assists
Though his efficiency wasn’t perfect, Stephen Curry praised Kuminga’s aggressiveness and readiness.
Stephen Curry’s immediate reaction to Jimmy Butler’s injury
The Warriors’ star guard revealed he encouraged Kuminga the moment Butler went down. "I thought he played aggressive. I know he probably wants to play better and knock the rust off," Curry told KNBR. "As soon as Jimmy went down, I saw him on the bench and gave him a little love, knowing he’d get called on quickly. That’s the nature of this league—you never know when your moment comes."
Curry stressed that Kuminga’s energy and aggression would be critical for the Golden State Warriors moving forward.
The Golden State Warriors’ trust in Jonathan Kuminga
Kuminga’s role has fluctuated this season, but with Jimmy Butler’s status uncertain for Game 3, his minutes could expand. Curry highlighted two key areas for the 22-year-old:
1. Reading the game – Understanding defensive positioning and offensive opportunities.
2. Staying aggressive – Making an impact whenever he’s on the floor.
"We trust him when he has the ball," Stephen Curry said. "He needs to see the pictures, understand the intensity, and be ready to play."
What’s next for the Golden State Warriors?
Golden State returns home for Game 3 on Saturday, aiming to take a 2-1 series lead. Kuminga’s performance could be a deciding factor, especially if Butler remains sidelined.
Key takeaways:
- Butler’s injury opens the door for Kuminga.
- Stephen Curry believes Kuminga can contribute despite limited recent playing time.
- The Warriors need Kuminga’s energy and defense to counter Houston’s physical play.
Also read: Luka Doncic joins rare Lakers club – Kobe Bryant missed the cut
As the series shifts, all eyes will be on how Golden State adjusts—and whether Kuminga can deliver when it matters most.
Jonathan Kuminga’s return to the rotation after Jimmy Butler
Jonathan Kuminga played 26 minutes in Game 2, his highest since March 17 against the Denver Nuggets. His stat line included:
- 11 points
- 4/12 shooting from the field
- 3 rebounds
- 2 assists
Though his efficiency wasn’t perfect, Stephen Curry praised Kuminga’s aggressiveness and readiness.
Stephen Curry’s immediate reaction to Jimmy Butler’s injury
Steph Curry talked about what he wants to see out of Kuminga if he gets his number called again:
— KNBR (@KNBR) April 24, 2025
"The challenge has always been for him to 'see the pictures,' understand the intensity that's out there, try to be in the right spots defensively, and then when he has opportunities… pic.twitter.com/9GYlrL9GZ0
The Warriors’ star guard revealed he encouraged Kuminga the moment Butler went down. "I thought he played aggressive. I know he probably wants to play better and knock the rust off," Curry told KNBR. "As soon as Jimmy went down, I saw him on the bench and gave him a little love, knowing he’d get called on quickly. That’s the nature of this league—you never know when your moment comes."
Curry stressed that Kuminga’s energy and aggression would be critical for the Golden State Warriors moving forward.
The Golden State Warriors’ trust in Jonathan Kuminga
Kuminga’s role has fluctuated this season, but with Jimmy Butler’s status uncertain for Game 3, his minutes could expand. Curry highlighted two key areas for the 22-year-old:
1. Reading the game – Understanding defensive positioning and offensive opportunities.
2. Staying aggressive – Making an impact whenever he’s on the floor.
"We trust him when he has the ball," Stephen Curry said. "He needs to see the pictures, understand the intensity, and be ready to play."
What’s next for the Golden State Warriors?
Golden State returns home for Game 3 on Saturday, aiming to take a 2-1 series lead. Kuminga’s performance could be a deciding factor, especially if Butler remains sidelined.
Key takeaways:
- Butler’s injury opens the door for Kuminga.
- Stephen Curry believes Kuminga can contribute despite limited recent playing time.
- The Warriors need Kuminga’s energy and defense to counter Houston’s physical play.
Also read: Luka Doncic joins rare Lakers club – Kobe Bryant missed the cut
As the series shifts, all eyes will be on how Golden State adjusts—and whether Kuminga can deliver when it matters most.
You may also like
Aayush Sharma talks about how Salman Khan's painting turned out to be lucky for him
Ruben Amorim closes in on first summer transfer as Man Utd make 'significant progress'
United Healthcare assassin Luigi Mangione faces death penalty in major legal update on case
Real Housewives star Brandi Glanville rushed to hospital after facial paralysis
ITV Coronation Street star quits soap and has already filmed final scenes