Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has made the bold decision to bench Draymond Green for Jonathan Kuminga. While it’s unclear how long this change will last, the Warriors are hopeful Kuminga can finally take that next leap with an increased role and opportunity.

Via Anthony Slater of The Athletic: “Steve Kerr said he’d like to keep Draymond Green coming off the bench in near future. He said they’re trying to ‘maximize’ Jonathan Kuminga and not ‘wear down’ Draymond Green. Plan is to close halves with Green at center. The Andrew Wiggins ankle injury could complicate puzzle.”

Steve Kerr said he’d like to keep Draymond Green coming off the bench in near future. He said they’re trying to “maximize” Jonathan Kuminga and not “wear down” Draymond Green. Plan is to close halves with Green at center. The Andrew Wiggins ankle injury could complicate puzzle.

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 7, 2024

Green expressed no issue with the move when speaking with reporters, talking extensively about his belief in Kuminga and the importance of veterans like himself being willing to take a backseat when necessary. Steph Curry also reacted to the move, saying it’s time to get a look at Kuminga in this role.

“We’re a different team than we’ve been the last three years,” Curry said. “The experimental phase of trying to unlock new looks, new go-to sets, put the ball in his hands, it’s time for that for sure.”

Steph Curry on Jonathan Kuminga: “The experimental phase of trying to unlock new looks, new go-to sets, put the ball in his hands, it’s time for that for sure.” pic.twitter.com/ufOLQsp92f

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) December 7, 2024

If Kuminga thrives in this role, it’s presumably something Kerr could stick with. If the 21-year-old forward struggles, Kerr could certainly reduce his role again, as he has shown no hesitancy to do in the past.