Jonathan Kuminga came in for heavy online criticism after a difficult preseason performance for the Minnesota Timberwolves in their 123-112 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday. The forward scored only two points, shooting 1-for-9 in 19 minutes, and added one rebound and three assists. Kuminga was the only Timberwolves starter to finish with a negative plus-minus, at -7.
Kuminga had been one of the most talked-about free agents of the offseason, with several clubs, including the Los Angeles Lakers, offering more money and a longer deal. He instead chose Minnesota's two-year contract with a player option, a structure that allows him to return to the market next offseason for a more lucrative contract. That choice put him under closer watch, and detractors were quick to pounce after his first underwhelming outing.
"Jonathan Kuminga WENT OFF tonight 🔥 🧱 2 PTS 🧱 1 REB 🧱 1-9 FG 🧱 0-3 3P Lakers dodged a bullet 😭," BrickCenter posted.
Minnesota have options to absorb an off night from Kuminga. LaMelo Ball, who posted 14 points and seven assists in 20 minutes against Indiana, gives the side another source of scoring and playmaking. Still, the Timberwolves need Kuminga defensively, with limited depth at power forward, where his build suits guarding bigger opponents and competing on the boards.
