Warriors Hold Out Jonathan Kuminga as Knee Injury Delays Return on Road Trip

Jonathan Kuminga’s strong start to the 2025–26 season hit its first setback last week when the Golden State Warriors forward missed his first game of the year. The injury occurred during a matchup with the San Antonio Spurs on Nov. 12, when Kuminga exited early and did not return. His absence continued into Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans, marking his second straight game unavailable.

Despite being seen at the team’s shootaround before tipoff in New Orleans, Kuminga was ruled out once again as Golden State elected to slow-play his recovery. According to reporting from The Athletic’s Nick Friedell, the franchise is prioritizing caution while the 22-year-old works through knee soreness that surfaced after the Spurs game.

Golden State’s decision comes as the team navigates a challenging road stretch, with two more games on the trip following Sunday’s contest. The earliest Kuminga could suit up again is Tuesday, Nov. 18 against the Orlando Magic, though no official timetable has been confirmed. The Warriors remain optimistic the setback is minor but are unwilling to risk aggravating the injury.

The absence of the explosive forward comes at a time when the Warriors have leaned heavily on his athleticism and defensive versatility. With Kuminga out, Golden State has turned to deeper rotation pieces while trying to maintain momentum in the early part of the season.

1. Managing the Injury and Upcoming Schedule

Kuminga’s knee issue surfaced late in the Warriors’ win over San Antonio, and although the injury was not considered severe, the team’s training and medical staff have urged caution. He did not return to that game and was subsequently ruled out Friday as symptoms persisted. His participation in Sunday’s shootaround offered a positive sign, but the Warriors ultimately opted against activating him. Golden State’s road trip adds a layer of complexity to managing the injury. With multiple games in a short window and travel in between, the team is balancing competitive needs with long-term health considerations. A return on Tuesday remains possible, but the Warriors are expected to reevaluate him after the Pelicans game as they gather more information. The Warriors have leaned into their depth during his absence. Veterans and bench forwards have shouldered additional minutes, though replicating Kuminga’s blend of size, mobility and energy has proven challenging. His on-ball defense and ability to pressure the rim have become central components of Golden State’s early-season identity. Kuminga’s status will remain day-to-day until he demonstrates sustained improvement. For now, the Warriors’ approach aligns with their broader philosophy: prioritize player health over short-term gains, especially so early in the season.

2. Kuminga’s Performance and Role Before the Injury

Before being sidelined, Kuminga had enjoyed one of the most consistent stretches of his young career. He appeared in 13 games, starting 12, while averaging a career-high 27 minutes per contest. His production reflected his expanded role, as he posted 13.8 points, 6.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game. Shooting efficiency has been an important part of his early-season growth. Kuminga is connecting on 47.8 percent of his field goals while showing modest improvement from the free-throw line at 77.1 percent. His three-point shooting remains a work in progress at 32.4 percent, but the Warriors have continued to encourage him to take open looks to keep defenses honest. Drafted seventh overall in 2021, Kuminga entered the league under considerable spotlight as one of the early stars of the G League Ignite program. His development in Golden State has often been a point of debate among fans, with discussions around usage, playing time and long-term potential consistently surfacing. This season, however, has seen Kuminga take tangible steps forward. His improved consistency, defensive intensity and physical maturity have made him a near-permanent fixture in the starting lineup, validating the coaching staff’s increased trust in him.

3. Contract Extension and Long-Term Expectations

Kuminga’s strong start followed an eventful offseason during which he and the Warriors engaged in a prolonged contract negotiation. With both sides initially far apart, talks extended through training camp and preseason. Ultimately, the two parties agreed to a two-year, $45 million extension that includes a team option for the 2026–27 campaign. The deal reflects Golden State’s belief in Kuminga’s long-term value while maintaining flexibility as the franchise transitions into its next era. For Kuminga, the contract provides financial security while giving him the platform to solidify his role as a foundational piece. Still just 22 years old, Kuminga remains at the center of the Warriors’ developmental plans. His athletic profile, defensive ceiling and improving offensive skill set position him as one of the organization’s most important young players. How he progresses this season—and how quickly he returns from his current injury—will shape both his trajectory and the team’s fortunes. As Golden State works through its early-season road trip, the Warriors will continue to monitor Kuminga’s knee closely, balancing urgency with patience.