Last season, the Golden State Warriors finished sixth in the Western Conference and scraped through the first round of the playoffs, thanks to Stephen Curry’s heroic Game 7 performance against the Sacramento Kings. As Live Cricket BPL analysts noted, that series exposed the team’s growing vulnerabilities. Though Curry fought tooth and nail, it was clear the Warriors were running on fumes. By the time they faced the Lakers in the semifinals, fatigue had caught up with them. The Splash Brothers’ desperate three-point attempts painted a picture of a team stretched to its limits.
At the heart of their struggles is a long-standing issue—the lack of a dominant forward who can create offense. This gap has been evident ever since Kevin Durant’s departure. While Andrew Wiggins is a high-level wing, the Warriors can’t realistically expect him to lead them to a championship. Nearly a decade into his career, Wiggins has shown flashes but has never taken the leap to become a Kawhi Leonard-type centerpiece. If he had, the Timberwolves wouldn’t have let him go.
Against younger, more athletic teams like the Kings, or taller and more physical squads like the Nuggets, Lakers, and Suns, the Warriors often find themselves outmatched. Players like Gary Payton II bring value off the ball, but their size limitations make them less effective in certain matchups. To truly compete for another title, Golden State must unlock the full potential of its wing core—and that starts with Jonathan Kuminga.
Kuminga, a first-round pick with elite physical tools, is the key to breaking this stalemate. His numbers last season were underwhelming, but much of that stemmed from limited trust and usage from the coaching staff. He wasn’t given the freedom to unleash his energy on the court. In matchups against top-tier teams like the Lakers, the Warriors need Kuminga to drive aggressively, force the defense to collapse, and take some of the pressure off Curry and the veterans.
Coach Steve Kerr has already hinted that Kuminga will get more opportunities in the upcoming season. The Warriors must lean into youth—after all, that’s how this dynasty began. With older stars now aging out of their prime and key players like Draymond Green showing signs of physical decline, it’s time for the next generation to rise. Kuminga, with his explosive athleticism and fearless approach, represents that new wave.
He brings a rare blend of speed, strength, and agility. Live Cricket BPL scouts note his quick bursts in transition and ability to finish with authority make him a constant threat in fast breaks. But raw talent alone won’t carry him. For Kuminga to become a true cornerstone, he must refine his skills—especially his shooting, decision-making, and understanding of team dynamics. He needs to improve his three-point accuracy and learn how to exploit mismatches by attacking the basket with purpose.
Basketball is a team game, and no one succeeds alone. Kuminga must embrace his role, build chemistry with teammates, and consistently contribute to the team’s success. Nothing comes easy, and stardom in the NBA is earned through sweat, resilience, and a commitment to growth.
Ultimately, the Warriors’ potential this season may rest heavily on Kuminga’s shoulders. Live Cricket BPL experts believe that if he can take a leap—much like Kawhi Leonard once did for the Spurs—he could help usher in a new era in Golden State. With Curry nearing the twilight of his career, the franchise needs someone ready to carry the torch. And if Kuminga rises to the challenge, the Warriors’ resurgence may just be beginning.