https://www.nbcsportsbayarea.com/nba/golden-state-warriors/jonathan-kuminga-future-warriors-franchise-klay-thompson/1714115/

Klay praises Kuminga's athleticism, believes he's ‘future' of Warriors

By Taylor Wirth

• Published March 17, 2024

The Warriors are in good hands whenever the dynastic trio of Steph
Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green eventually retire.

That's because Golden State has an emerging young core consisting of
Jonathan Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Brandin Podziemski and Moses
Moody, who have shown flashes of brilliance throughout their early NBA
careers.

Kuminga, the Warriors' brightest young star, showed out again in Golden
State's 128-121 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday at
Crypto.com Arena, scoring 23 points on 9-of-16 shooting from the field
and 2 of 3 from 3-point range.

In speaking to reporters after the game, Thompson was asked about the
young forward's big game and his effort defending Lakers superstar
LeBron James.

"Jonathan's been incredible for us," Thompsons said. "He might be the
best athlete in the NBA, just his ability to rise up and his combination
of speed. He's the future of the franchise and we need him to go where
we want to go this season."

Kuminga always has been known for his high-flying, ferocious dunks since
his rookie 2021-22 NBA season, but in Year 3, the 21-year-old has taken
his game to another level and often is the team's second-leading scorer
behind Curry.

In 65 games this season, Kuminga is averaging 16.2 points, 4.8 rebounds
and 2.1 assists in 26.1 minutes per contest.

As Thompson mentioned, the Warriors need Kuminga down the stretch and
into the playoffs should Golden State secure a spot, and the electric
youngster is ready to rise to the occasion.