“Kerr Is So Petty” – Fans Rip Steve Kerr for Benching Jonathan Kuminga in Warriors’ 2025 NBA Playoffs Game 1 Win over Rockets

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The Golden State Warriors may have stolen 2025 NBA Playoffs Game 1 on the road against the Houston Rockets, but not every fan was thrilled with the result, especially when it came to Steve Kerr’s rotation decisions.

Despite the 95-85 win and Curry’s 31-point performance backed by Jimmy Butler’s 25, Jonathan Kuminga’s name was once again left off the box score. A Did Not Play – Coach’s Decision (DNP-CD) for the second straight game. In fact, Kuminga hasn’t touched the floor since April 11th.

Meanwhile, Buddy Hield, who has been inconsistent this season, played for 15 minutes, scoring just 2 points.

Despite Kerr reaching his 100th career playoff win as a head coach, fans were not pleased with his rotation decisions.

Check out some reactions:

Why is Jonathan Kuminga not playing. That man Kerr is so petty and it’s only hurting the team kmt
— Stacy-Ann 💍🇯🇲♈️ (@tallawah12) April 21, 2025

The fact that Buddy Hield is getting minutes but not Jonathan Kuminga is beyond me.
— Ja Grant (@TheNBANerdYT) April 21, 2025

Play Jonathan Kuminga. Stop overthinking it. You can obviously pull him if it’s not working out. Don’t think Buddy Hield needs to see minutes again in this series.
— Natalie Esquire (@natfluential) April 21, 2025

Jonathan Kuminga DNP-CD'd again. Why didn't the Warriors trade him? Last year, this year, any year? Why are they so committed to mismanaging all their young talent? 🤦🏾‍♂️

If I'm Kuminga I'm taking a one-year qualifying offer and becoming an unrestricted free agent next season. Fuck…
— Osiris (@AstrologyOsiris) April 21, 2025

Jonathan Kuminga is feeling the full effect of capitalism and politics in the NBA. Organisations eat even their best players case in point the Bulls and Jordan.
— Felix (@iamfelixayo) April 21, 2025

Hey you know a young player who can get rebounds with all these other 6’7”+ guys in the paint? Jonathan Kuminga.
— Trap Arms Enthusiast (@MidrangeMalone) April 21, 2025

Terrorist Kerr is playing Buddy Hield over Jonathan Kuminga. This is ugly to watch.
— ¥ud!n_ ® (@omoDnibuA) April 21, 2025

Kerr addressed Kuminga’s absence earlier after the Play-in win over the Grizzlies, explaining his reasoning with Jimmy Butler as the focus:

“To be very frank, the Jimmy / JK combination has not been great… And I’m playing Jimmy 40 minutes a night because Jimmy is, he’s one of the very best players in the league… For now, that’s why I’ve been leaning into the lineups that I have.”

Adding fuel to the fire are recent rumors suggesting Kuminga might explore options elsewhere this offseason. According to Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard, Kuminga might seek a team that gives him a bigger role.

Kuminga has played 47 games this season. He is averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game. Despite playing a limited role this season, Kuminga ranks as the team’s fourth-leading scorer.

Also Read: One Concerning Stat for Steph Curry Could Be Decisive Factor Against Houston Rockets in 2025 NBA Playoffs

While Game 2 is set for Wednesday in Houston, all eyes will be on Kerr’s rotation and whether Kuminga gets a shot to prove he belongs on the playoff stage.

Shweta B

Shweta is the founder of CrossSports Central — a creative nerd with a serious love for sports. When she's not breaking down game-winning plays, you’ll find her gaming, or hanging out with her dogs.

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