2021 NBA Mock Draft — 7. Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors
The Warriors seem pretty eager to trade this pick for another star. Whether or not such a deal materializes, of course, is another matter entirely. This would mark a bit of a fall for Jonathan Kuminga, and even then, he’s not the most natural fit in Golden State. The Warriors want to win a championship, and Kuminga may not contribute consistently for a year or two.
That said, if the pick does get traded, it would likely involve a team getting rid of its star. In that case, drafting a player like Kuminga — with very clear star upside — is a sensible option. In the event Golden State does keep the pick, Kuminga has enough tools-wise to tempt them. He’s a strong 6-foot-8 wing with the ability to hit tough shots and defend multiple positions. The Warriors’ player development program was upgraded this offseason, and Kuminga could quickly become its crowning achievement.
Worst case scenario, the Warriors look to free agency and the trade market for immediate help while Kuminga develops as a bridge to the future. There’s very little chance this pick is a starter, and Kuminga not being a big-minutes rotation player as a rookie probably doesn’t impact Golden State’s title odds. Steve Kerr would prefer to lean on vets anyway.
BIG BOARD RANKING: 5