Steve Kerr’s Bold Decision: Jonathan Kuminga’s DNP in Warriors’ Season Finale Explained

In a pivotal game that determined their playoff positioning, the Golden State Warriors fell to the Los Angeles Clippers 124-119 in overtime on April 13, 2025. A notable aspect of this matchup was the absence of forward Jonathan Kuminga, who remained on the bench despite being healthy. This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike.

Coach Kerr’s Rationale Behind Kuminga’s Absence

Following the game, Coach Steve Kerr addressed the media, providing insight into his lineup choices. He acknowledged that since the arrival of Jimmy Butler in February, the team had found a lineup that yielded positive results. Kerr stated, “We’ve just found a group since Jimmy got here that we’re pretty comfortable with.” He emphasized that Kuminga’s exclusion was not a permanent shift but rather a reflection of the specific dynamics of that game.

Kerr further elaborated that he hadn’t informed Kuminga of his potential inactivity, as he was uncertain about the final rotation until game time. He mentioned that both Kuminga and Gui Santos, who also didn’t play, had been impactful players, and their absence was more about the game’s flow than their performance.

Kuminga’s Response and Team Dynamics

After the game, Kuminga was observed practicing shots on the Chase Center floor, indicating his commitment and readiness for future opportunities. Teammate Stephen Curry expressed support for Kuminga, highlighting the unpredictable nature of playoff rotations and the importance of staying prepared for any role. Curry noted that while it wasn’t Kuminga’s time in this game, he could play a crucial role in upcoming matchups.

Looking Ahead: Warriors’ Play-In Game

The Warriors’ loss to the Clippers has set the stage for a play-in tournament game against the Memphis Grizzlies. This matchup is critical, as the winner secures a spot in the main playoff bracket. The team’s recent lineup adjustments, including Kuminga’s fluctuating role, will be under scrutiny as they prepare for this high-stakes game.

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