SAN FRANCISCO — The Warriors on Monday avoided injury concerns for one of their brightest young players. Jonathan Kuminga was seen in training on Tuesday with heavy tape around his right thumb and wrist and did not use his right hand to shoot during a 3-on-3 session after training that included players and coaches.
However, Warriors coach Steve Kerr said this sight is nothing to worry about. Kuminga jammed his thumb over the backboard, either to rebound or try to block the shot from Kerr’s memory, and missed the contact portion of Tuesday’s practice.
“He said he didn’t feel anything when it happened because of the adrenaline,” Kerr said Tuesday. “It became sore overnight. It’s nothing serious, he’ll be fine.”
Kuminga is expected to make a big leap in his third professional season, and he gave a glimpse of that belief in Saturday night’s season opener. The 21-year-old forward, who recently turned in a game-high 24 points on 8-of-14 shooting, added four assists. He went 4 of 8 from 3-point range and 4 of 5 at the free throw line.
Bounce continues to be a keen focus on Kuminga’s development and is being carried onto the field. Kuminga led both teams with eight rebounds, all of which came on defense.
Veteran point guard Chris Paul also sat out the contact portion of Tuesday’s practice as a precautionary rest day. He played 13 minutes on Saturday and finished his Warriors debut with six points, five assists and four rebounds. Kerr said Paul had a “great workout” on Tuesday before sitting out the rest of the day.
The Warriors had two straight days of high-intensity training and scrimmages. Wednesday will be a light day and Kerr does not expect any restrictions for Kuminga or Paul.
Both are expected to play in the Warriors’ second preseason game Friday night against the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena.
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