Warriors forward and #7 overall pick in the 2021 draft Jonathan Kuminga was brought back from the G-League today in time for the Warriors to face off against the Rockets, per Warriors PR. Kuminga had a solid game last night against the Stockton Kings, putting up 15 points, 6 boards, 4 assists, a steal and a monster block in the Santa Cruz Warriors loss.

Kuminga’s return is likely due to his play last night, but also a lack of Andre Iguodala, who will not be playing today against Houston. It’s a good opportunity to get the #7 some run against a rebuilding team with plenty of young guns like the Rockets have. He’ll be able to face off against former Ignite teammate Jalen Green as well.

The rookie was drafted seemingly with development in mind, as many knew he’d be one of the higher-potential but project-needed picks in this draft, a part of why he slid to the Warriors. Kuminga was one of the highly-touted G-League Ignite prospects last season, and while his feel for the game appears to be pretty good, some of his skills need sharpening to get him ready for the NBA.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was in attendance at the Sea Dubs game, and has been seemingly open to making adjustments to get the rights guys some run, as he did with Gary Payton II. Kerr went onto the broadcast and talked a bit about his expectations for Kuminga this season.

“The biggest thing for young guys is to understand how hard you have to play, every single play” Kerr said regarding what he wanted to see from the G-League stint. “All young guys have to learn that lesson, and that’s the whole point of him being here.”

Kuminga’s an excellent athlete, and has historically been able to dominate the game with his physicality and athleticism. He has a ton of potential once his game skills are more refined, and could even be one of the franchise cornerstones for the Warriors dynasties of tomorrow. Kuminga should get some solid run today against the Rockets, where he can show a little more of what he can do at the NBA level this season.

(Photo credit: Abbie Parr / Getty Images)