Golden State’s blowout win over the Bulls featured a deep, energetic rotation that did not include Kuminga, despite the absences of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Al Horford.

Kerr leaned into Gui Santos, De’Anthony Melton, and Pat Spencer on the wings and in the backcourt, praising their energy and fit around newly returned Jimmy Butler as the reason for the decision.

Kerr framed the benching as part of the normal churn for non-stars, stressing that players move in and out of the rotation depending on health and performance. The context matters, though, as Kuminga had just gone 1-for-10 the night before and is shooting roughly 30 percent from the field since coming back from knee tendinitis, making the call as much about form as tactics.

A big contract, a crowded forward room

The timing of the DNP is jarring because Kuminga is only weeks removed from signing a two-year, $48.5 million deal that includes a team option and trade-friendly structure.

The extension ended a summer standoff but also put pressure on both sides for clearer answers about his long-term place next to veterans like Butler and Curry.

On paper, Kuminga’s athleticism and transition scoring still intrigue the front office, yet Kerr has consistently challenged him on rebounding, help defense, and decision-making. With Butler often sliding to power forward and Santos earning trust as a high-energy role player, Kuminga now occupies a thinner margin for error than his draft pedigree and salary would suggest.

What Kerr wants from Kuminga now

Publicly, Kerr has pushed Kuminga to run the floor, cut with purpose, and impact games without needing constant touches, a shift away from the on-ball diet the forward would prefer. The healthy scratch, followed by calm comments from both coach and player, suggests the staff sees this as a test of professionalism rather than a permanent demotion.

Kuminga has responded by stressing that he feels healthy and will stay ready for whenever his number is called, a stance that keeps the door open for a rebound in minutes or a future trade showcase after he becomes eligible to be moved in mid-January.

For now, his role in Golden State is clear in one respect: he sits squarely at the intersection of development project, win-now luxury, and potential trade chip in a rotation Kerr will not hesitate to adjust again.