“This is the JK (Jonathan Kuminga) we want,” Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said with a gleam in his eye after the Pacers game. But the situation may not be as simple as it sounds. Ever heard the phrase “actions over words”? Well, the opinions shared on The Hoop Collective certainly seemed to hint at that regarding Kerr and Kuminga‘s situation.

The show’s host, Brian Windhorst, suggested that the Warriors’ disappointing 115-113 loss was due to the 22-year-old forward, who had another rough day on the court. There were a couple of mistakes that Windhorst pointed out Kuminga made against the Lakers, which have brought him under scrutiny. Despite being given more playing time this season, he struggled to showcase his efficiency. This led ESPN insiders to question which franchise might be interested in acquiring him.

While discussing how significant of an asset he is, Tim MacMahon described him as “spectacularly athletic” and confirmed that there are teams that would be interested in acquiring the 6-foot-7 forward. He further revealed his thoughts on what Kerr might be thinking about Kuminga. “Steve Kerr doesn’t need me to stick up for him. He’s a hall of fame coach, you know, has all kinds of championship, hardware. Windy’s already his defense attorney. He doesn’t need another one. But, clearly, Kerr doesn’t believe Kuminga,” MacMahon added.

Kerr was disappointed with Kuminga’s performances against the Timberwolves and Grizzlies, where he could only manage 11 points in each games. “I’m not going to stop coaching him,” the HC said before the game against the Pacers. He didn’t hold back in his criticism. “The last two games, his field goal attempts, his decision making has been poor. That needs to improve.”

Now that Kuminga delivered a 14-point performance against the Lakers while the team struggled, things may not be so smooth in the Warriors’ locker room. To help improve the situation, MacMahon proposed a solution.

NBA Insider suggests move to avoid unhealthy locker room situation

MacMahon predicted that the situation in the Golden State locker room doesn’t look healthy, so parting ways with the youngster might be the best option. “I think it’s at the point where probably both sides will be better off moving off. I think Kuminga needs a new situation,” the insider stated. “I think the Warriors need to get some value for him and move on because it’s like the the the tension that’s kind of been simmering there for a while, it’s not healthy.”

The situation has become particularly tense as Kuminga expressed frustration over his reduced role with the Warriors. There were times when he entered as the starter while the other times he didn’t. However, when Kerr gave him the opportunity, he couldn’t translate it into production on the court.

So far this season, Kuminga has filled his stat sheet with an average of 15.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.0 assists, which is far from impressive. That’s not enough to secure a spot in Steve Kerr’s 12-man rotation, which is why his name continues to surface in potential trade rumors. Do you think the Dubs should find a suitor for Kuminga, or should they focus on developing his skills? Let us know what you think.