The Golden State Warriors are set to visit the Orlando Magic on February 27, looking to extend their strong run of form. It’s a game they should be able to win comfortably, given their recent performances. They will be coming off a thumping 128-92 victory against the Charlotte Hornets.
However, they will once again be without their star power forward Jonathan Kuminga, who continues to recover from an ankle injury. Kuminga has been an essential piece for the Warriors this season, averaging 16.8 points, five rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 32 games before his injury. But the talented forward has now missed 24 straight games since spraining his right ankle on January 4 against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Latest Update On Kuminga’s Recovery
There had been hope that Kuminga could return during the Warriors’ upcoming five-game road trip, but he remains out for now. Anthony Slater of The Athletic provided the latest update on X (formerly Twitter), saying:
“Jonathan Kuminga will remain out in Orlando tomorrow night to open the Warriors’ road trip. Still waiting on the final Rick Celebrini green light. He’s been scrimmaging. At the final stage of return from an ankle injury. Middle of road trip a possibility.”
Jonathan Kuminga will remain out in Orlando tomorrow night to open the Warriors’ road trip. Still waiting on final Rick Celebrini green light. He’s been scrimmaging. At final stage of return from ankle injury. Middle of road trip a possibility.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) February 26, 2025
The Warriors have been careful with Kuminga’s recovery process, ensuring he is fully ready before making his return to game action. The young forward has already participated in five-on-five scrimmages, which is a key step in his rehabilitation.
Despite missing Kuminga, the Warriors have found their rhythm lately. They are currently on a four-game winning streak, climbing the Western Conference standings, and they have won seven of their last eight games. Golden State now sits just half a game behind the Minnesota Timberwolves for seventh place, showing that they are still very much in the fight for playoff positioning.
One of the biggest reasons for the Warriors’ resurgence has been the arrival of Jimmy Butler. The veteran forward has added a new level of intensity to the team and has averaged 18 points, six rebounds, and 5.4 assists in seven games.
Butler Optimistic About Kuminga’s Return
Following the Warriors’ 128-92 blowout win against the Charlotte Hornets, Jimmy Butler was asked about Kuminga’s return and how the team would reintegrate him. Butler made it clear that Kuminga’s transition back into the lineup should be without any hassle.
Speaking to Anthony Slater of The Athletic, Butler praised Kuminga’s skill set and defensive versatility:
“Hella athletic. Can shoot it. Can score it in a multitude of ways. And can guard. I think he’s going to come back and do what he’s been doing. My job is to make it even easier on him. So come on back and help us get some dubs.”
Kuminga’s return will be a big boost for the Warriors. The team sits at the eighth spot in the Western Conference with a 31-27 record. However, for now, the Warriors have to make do without Kuminga. In his absence, Stephen Curry and Butler will surely step up to push the Warriors’ winning streak further.
