The Golden State Warriors have turned their season around, playing their best basketball after what initially seemed to be a disappointing year.
Since acquiring six-time All-Star Jimmy Butler III from the Miami Heat at the trade deadline, the Warriors have won 12 of their last 14 games, emerging as a sleeper team in the Western Conference.
They currently hold the No. 6 seed at 37-28 and could soon receive a significant roster boost.
Warriors Injury Update: Jonathan Kuminga Nears Return
According to ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania, forward Jonathan Kuminga will return to the lineup in the Warriors’ matchup against the Sacramento Kings on Thursday, March 13, after missing nearly a month of action.
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga – out since Jan. 4 with a sprained ankle – plans to return to the lineup on Thursday against the Sacramento Kings, sources tell ESPN. Kuminga averaged 20.5 points in his last 14 games played, and now reintegrates to a surging team. pic.twitter.com/GvFFkI4OvC
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) March 11, 2025
Anthony Slater of The Athletic also revealed that he needs to go through the necessary final checkpoints, including the Warriors’ practice on Wednesday, before being cleared to play on Thursday.
Kuminga suffered an ankle injury in the Warriors’ Jan. 4 matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies, causing him to miss the last 31 games. He rolled his ankle while blocking a shot.
His return should be an encouraging sign for Warriors fans. Before the injury, he was playing some of his best basketball, averaging 16.8 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 45.9% from the field.
However, he elevated his play during a one-month stretch from Dec. 3 through Jan. 2, averaging 20.9 points on 47.7% shooting from the field and 37.3% from 3-point range, along with 6.2 rebounds in 14 games (six starts).
Kuminga has played for the Warriors for four NBA seasons since being drafted by the team in 2021. This season was shaping up to be a big one for the Congolese forward, as he is set to hit free agency this summer and could be looking for a major deal from the Warriors or another team.
Golden State Ascending at the Right Time
With the postseason just weeks away, the Warriors are peaking at the right time and look like a tough matchup for any opponent.
At 36 years old, Stephen Curry continues to play at an elite level, averaging 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists. Butler has only made the team better since his arrival at the deadline, and Draymond Green remains an elite defender as well.
There’s no telling how far the Warriors can go, but one thing is certain — they’re finding their rhythm, and Kuminga’s return only makes them stronger.