Potential Nets Target Expected to See Bigger Role After Star’s Injury

When the Golden State Warriors began their 2024-25 postseason run, Jonathan Kuminga wasn't part of HC Steve Kerr's rotation. Kuminga's demotion—along with his impending restricted free agency—has sparked countless rumors now regarding a potential pairing between him and the Brooklyn Nets. However, heading into Game 4 of Golden State's round one series vs. the Houston Rockets, Kuminga is back in the lineup.

After Jimmy Butler's scary fall in Game 2, Kuminga has played 43 total minutes, but the numbers haven't been spectacular. He followed up an 11-point, three-rebound effort on Wednesday with a seven-point, two-assist performance last night, and is trending toward being a major factor again in game four.

ESPN's Shams Charania provided an update on Butler ahead of Game 3, pointing toward another opportunity for Kuminga to make an impact.

“As soon as the Warriors saw him enter today and evaluated him they immediately ruled him out. He basically, Malika, has no mobility,” Charania told ESPN host Malika Andrews on NBA Countdown. “And it’s not just about playing through pain or taking pain-killing shots, he literally cannot move well enough to play basketball tonight for the Warriors.”

If Butler couldn't move last night, it seems highly unlikely he'll be ready to go when Golden State hosts Houston tomorrow. But how does this affect Brooklyn?

Think of Kuminga's situation like a fringe-first-round talent in the NCAA Tournament. Monster displays on the sport's biggest stage can help boost a player's value, and the former lottery selection is no different. Rise to the occasion, and see your price tag skyrocket.

Luckily for the Nets, they're projected to have the most cap space leaguewide when free agency opens on June 30, allowing them to meet Kuminga's desired value (unless he demands a max contract).

Kuminga has shown he has the ability to contribute immediately—while possessing an All-Star level ceiling—and teams will throw major dollar signs at him purely based off that fact. But if he can step his game up in the postseason and hold down the Warriors' frontcourt while Butler rehabs, Kuminga may be able to secure an offer similar to the five-year, $150 million offer he declined from Golden State ahead of the 2024-25 campaign.

If he can't improve his production, Brooklyn could be in line to bolster its young core with a hungry Kuminga at a bargain of a price.