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Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson a Roadblock for Warriors Youth? 21YO Star Blurts Big Sacrifice: “It’s Confusing…Messes with My Head”

Published 12/26/2023, 9:54 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Golden State Warriors need new playmakers, and Steve Kerr is not hesitating in trying out new rotations in their second unit. Things with the Warriors have always been around Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson who are now 35 and 33 years old, respectively. With Draymond Green out for a few weeks, the youngsters are in the rotation. But is there any roadblock for warriors’ youth when they are infused with veterans? 21-year-old Jonathan Kuminga recently vented out his frustration, as he wasn’t sure why he was benched so many times during the Christmas game against the Denver Nuggets.

Kuminga did whatever he could in just 23 minutes of playtime. He made 13 points on 4-for-8 shooting, made 5 rebounds, and 2 assists. He believes that his role in the Warriors team is greater than what he is being offered.

Kuminga vents out his frustration 

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There is both self-belief and simmering frustration that paints a picture of his yearning to unleash his full potential. In an interview with Marcus Thompson II of the Atlantic, the young forward opened up about his role and ambitions. “Yeah, I am a difference-maker,” Kuminga said. “I know I am.

An uncertain role within the team’s veteran-heavy rotation stifled his angst as he continued to say, “But sometimes, I’ve gotta take that away to make sure my OGs get the ball. That’s where it’s confusing. Sometimes, I come out the game not knowing what I did. And that messes with my head. It’s like, ‘What they want me to do?’ I can pass and I can do different s—.”

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Although his talent is undeniable, he is clearly confident in his abilities and he is not afraid to let everyone know it. But these strong sentiments perhaps add chaos to the cast. Firstly, his lack of alignment with the franchise’s internal conduct may not sit well with the overall strategy. Steph and Klay deserve to be trusted. Steve Kerr’s message is loud and clear, the rotations will respect the hierarchy that exists based on the most experience, that’s how things have worked for the dynasty.

Jonathan Kuminga Credits Steve Kerr’s Emergency Call-Up After Sensational Performance vs Celtics

Secondly, after Green’s departure, the Warriors opened a gap for Kuminga and other youngsters to consolidate themselves as starters. Something that is a part of Warriors’ new model. Kuminga was supposed to be taking advantage of this space and opportunity rather than throwing an unwarranted crisis into the media.

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His frustration is understandable, but Kuminga needs to put more faith in the Warriors’ depth rather than going around lamenting. He will indeed get a chance to spread his wings.

Watch This Story: Steve Kerr Makes Bold Promise to 20YO Brandin Podziemski for Heroics in Stephen Curry’s Absence

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Written by:

Chetan Kumar

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Chetan is an NBA content writer at Essentially Sports. Being an active basketball player since his school days, he has always been a dedicated follower of the NBA. His passion for the game has drove him to pursue a career in sports journalism.
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Edited by:

Saumya Khanduja