The Golden State Warriors have faltered after a strong 4-1 start, going 5-7 in their last 12 games with a bottom-10 offense. Draymond Green's recent remarks about personal agendas have fueled speculation about Jonathan Kuminga, who feels like a scapegoat and is now seen as a prime trade chip.
The Golden State Warriors' promising 4-1 start has dissipated, with the team now 5-7 over their last 12 games despite featuring Stephen Curry. Their offense ranks in the bottom 10, an unexpected issue for a squad built around elite shooting. A blowout loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 11 highlighted these struggles, prompting postgame comments from Draymond Green.
Green expressed frustration, stating, '[At the start of the season], I think everybody was committed to winning and doing it any way possible. And right now it does not feel that way.' He added, 'I think everyone has a personal agenda in this league. But you have to make the personal agenda work in the team confines. If it doesn't work, you kinda got to get rid of your agenda. Or eventually the agenda is the cause of someone getting moved.' Green later clarified on social media that his words were not aimed at any specific teammate.
The remarks appeared to target younger players, particularly Jonathan Kuminga, who ESPN reported felt 'like the scapegoat again' following a loss in Miami. Kuminga had been efficient early in the season, earning a starting and closing role under coach Steve Kerr. However, his turnovers increased and rebounds decreased, leading to him being benched in favor of rookie Will Richard and Moses Moody. Kuminga has missed the last four games due to injury.
In his absence, the Warriors won two games against the Spurs, where Curry scored 95 points combined. Yet, the team remains inconsistent, ranking among the league's worst in rebounding and turnovers—only four teams turn the ball over more frequently. Draymond Green is shooting 38% from the field, and the defense's 10th-place ranking is inflated by weak opponents.
Analysts argue Kuminga's fit in the Warriors' system is poor, as he excels at attacking downhill but lacks reliable shooting. Per Mark Stein, citing a league executive, Kuminga is 'one of the best trade chips in the league' ahead of the deadline. Trading him could benefit both sides, allowing Kuminga to develop elsewhere while addressing Golden State's flaws.