The Golden State Warriors are staring down a grim future—one without Stephen Curry leading the charge. On Monday, Anthony Edwards didn’t just sink a deep buzzer-beater; he delivered a warning. The shot, eerily reminiscent of Curry’s long-range daggers, put the Warriors in a 1-3 playoff hole. And just as hope dims, drama surrounding Jonathan Kuminga is making things worse. Game 5 could be a turning point—or the beginning of the end.
Jonathan Kuminga’s standing with the team is now under intense scrutiny. As the Warriors struggle in the playoffs, insiders suggest he might be on the trading block. A report from The Ringer reveals deeper issues behind the scenes. According to Logan Murdock, Kuminga’s tendency to chase his own scoring opportunities has frustrated head coach Steve Kerr. In one late-season game against the Blazers, Kuminga repeatedly ignored Curry’s presence to isolate and create his own shots—something that disrupted the team’s trademark ball movement and selfless play.
While Kuminga’s athleticism is undeniable, his decision-making has hurt his standing. Despite the team winning that game 103-86, Kerr’s frustration was visible. That night symbolized a disconnect between Kuminga’s individual approach and the team’s philosophy. The result? Kuminga received two straight “Did Not Play” designations—against the Clippers in the regular-season finale and again in the play-in matchup versus the Grizzlies. With his rookie extension eligibility looming, many around the franchise are wondering if he’s played his final game as a Warrior.
Last offseason, Kuminga reportedly declined a 5-year, $150 million contract. But after averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists with limited minutes and an unclear role, that decision is now being second-guessed. Tensions are rising, and trade talks may soon become unavoidable.
Meanwhile, there’s a silver lining—Stephen Curry is slowly recovering. Though sidelined by a hamstring injury since Game 1, Curry played a key role in that initial 99-88 win with a quick 13 points before exiting. Draymond Green and Buddy Hield helped secure the victory, but the Warriors haven’t won a game since.
Curry has resumed shooting drills and light workouts. If the Warriors manage to win Game 5, Curry is expected to be re-evaluated on Saturday ahead of a potential Game 6 in San Francisco. His return could rejuvenate the squad, but if they lose Game 5, the season ends before he has a chance.
At this crossroads, the Warriors face more than just elimination—they’re confronting a shift in identity. Without Curry, and with Kuminga’s situation unresolved, Golden State’s dynasty era may be inching closer to its final chapter. Game 5 could either buy them more time or cement the arrival of a new, uncertain era.