Jimmy Butler says he and Warriors youngster Jonathan Kuminga can thrive together

Jimmy Butler has become the leader of the Golden State Warriors for the time being, with Stephen Curry missing time through injury. He's been unable to lead them to a win against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Semifinals without Curry so far, but he's doing what he can.

One of the big changes that head coach Steve Kerr has made in this series is bringing in Jonathan Kuminga. The 22-year-old followed up a strong Game 2 showing with 30 points in Game 3. His impact is making fans question why he wasn't already starting, but Butler thinks this is only the beginning.

Jimmy on Kuminga's big night:

"It's a beautiful sight to see. Me and him can thrive together. He's gonna be a huge part in us winning on Monday" pic.twitter.com/kJl2gs1qa9
— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) May 11, 2025

"Shooting the ball when he's open, attacking into the free throw line," Butler said. "It's a beautiful sight to see. But like I tell everybody, me and him can thrive together. I know how to space the floor.

"You know, I can tell him, hey, when I have the ball, you go here and you do this. And we talk, we listen to one another. And then he has an incredible game like tonight. And he did so many good things out there on the floor. And I know that he's going to be a huge part of us winning on Monday."

Kuminga has struggled to nail down a starting spot, but this series could be the turning point in his career. Jimmy believes in him, and Steph's absence has given him a green light he could have only dreamt of. If he can help Golden State grab a Game 4 win alongside Butler, he would firmly change how he is currently viewed.

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