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[Saba Sports News] Despite a lopsided 117-93 defeat to the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 2 of their Western Conference Semifinal series, the Golden State Warriors may have uncovered a silver lining in the emergence of Jonathan Kuminga.
With Stephen Curry sidelined by a left hamstring strain suffered in Game 1, Kuminga stepped up off the bench and delivered one of his most impressive postseason outings yet. The 22-year-old forward scored 18 points on 8-of-11 shooting, adding five rebounds and an assist in 26 minutes — a bright spot in an otherwise difficult night for Golden State, which struggled to generate consistent offense.
Kuminga’s performance marked a notable jump from Game 1, where he logged just 13 minutes and contributed seven points. With Curry expected to miss at least the next two games, Kuminga’s breakout comes at a critical juncture for the Warriors.
Veteran forward Jimmy Butler III, who finished with 17 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in Game 2, praised Kuminga’s effort and expressed strong confidence in their potential as a duo.
“He’s a great basketball player. I can play with anybody. He can play with anybody,” Butler said postgame. “It’s all about playing the right way — attacking to score, attacking to pass, just making the right play. Me and JK can and will thrive together on the court.”
Butler’s remarks reflect growing trust in Kuminga as a key contributor, especially with Curry sidelined and the series now tied at 1-1. Golden State will lean heavily on its veterans and rising talent as it returns home for Games 3 and 4 in San Francisco.
The Warriors struggled as a unit in Game 2, committing 17 turnovers and shooting just 44.7% from the field. Buddy Hield, the team’s top scorer in Game 1, was limited to 15 points, while Draymond Green added nine points, five assists, and four rebounds.
Minnesota controlled much of the game behind strong efforts from Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, who combined for 44 points and 16 rebounds. The Timberwolves also dominated the paint, outscoring Golden State 54-42 inside.
