Atlanta Hawks fans have been appreciative of Jonathan Kuminga’s contributions since the team acquired him in a trade with the Golden State Warriors. On Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers, the high-leaping forward dropped 20 points, seven rebounds and three assists in 25 minutes. Kuminga’s performance helped the Hawks dominate the Blazers 135-101.
In-arena fans started chanting this while Kuminga shot free throws late in the fourth quarter:
“Thank you, Warriors.”
One fan reacted:
“Damn, Kuminga gonna take the Hawks to the FINALS.”
Another fan added:
“JK (3)-Steve Kerr (0)”
One more fan continued:
“Kerr really f**ked this up. IDC what JK can or can’t do with Jimmy out and now Steph. U keep him and play him.”
Another fan tweeted:
“The potential the Warriors never let blossom.”
Warriors coach Steve Kerr often mentioned how Jonathan Kuminga’s poor fit with the team was the reason things didn’t work out for the 6-foot-7 forward. Kerr didn’t want Kuminga on the floor with Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green, two inefficient outside shooters. Even when healthy, Kuminga spent most of his time this season on the Golden State bench.
The Warriors’ need for size, rim protection and shooting prompted them to trade for former Hawks big man Kristaps Porzingis. While Kuminga has thrived in Atlanta, Porzingis continued to be injury-prone, having played just one game for the Dubs due to a mysterious illness.
Hawks 3-0 Since Acquiring Jonathan Kuminga
The Atlanta Hawks have not lost since acquiring Jonathan Kuminga from the Golden State Warriors. They are now 3-0 with him in the lineup. During that stretch, Kuminga is averaging 22.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 1.5 steals per game. The 2022 NBA champ is shooting 66.7%, including 57.1% from deep.
Porzingis gave the Hawks elite rim protection and shooting. He raised the ceiling for them when healthy. However, he continued to have injuries and health issues, making the Kuminga trade a smart move.
With Onyeka Okongwu taking over Porzingis’ spot, Jonathan Kuminga has helped stabilize the bench. Atlanta’s non-starters now include Kuminga, Zaccharie Risacher, Jock Landale, Corey Kispert, Gabe Vincent and others. The team is thriving with more balance and better depth following the trade deadline.
The Hawks’ three-game winning streak improved their record to 31-31, 3.5 games behind the Philadelphia 76ers (33-26) for an outright playoff spot.
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