OKC Thunder NBA draft profile: Jonathan Kuminga – untapped potential

Jonathan Kuminga strengths and weaknesses

Strengths:

Although Jalen Green’s stock rose during his season on the G-League Ignite ironically it was Kuminga who outscored him in seven of the 13 games they both played. JK registered four double-doubles in those matches often serving up glimpses of his high-end athleticism with a full range of fundamental skills.

Potential is a word you’ll hear over and over again when it comes to the combo forward. Although he’s raw he shows signs of being able to dominate in every key category and on both sides of the ball.

His athleticism and natural talent mean he can create his own shot, score at the rim, use his speed to drive by opponents or in transition. He gets to the line frequently is a good rebounder and a better-than-expected ball handler when he keeps things simple. The ability is there for him to stretch the court and it’s not his shot mechanics that are the problem — it’s his decision-making.

At just 18 his youth tends to overtake him equating to him overthinking things. When he just reacts and does what is organic to him the results are often spectacular. His athleticism allows him to succeed in spite of his rawness.

If he lands in the right system with a strong development team and exercises patience there is reason to believe he could become a player with limited weaknesses.

Weaknesses:

Youth is the primary issue with Jonathan Kuminga which means he’s often his own worst enemy. When assessing his talent it’s important to remember how young he is since most of the mistakes he makes or areas he needs to improve all link back to his age and inexperience.

For example, his lack of focus, forcing shots when better options are available, and lack of consistency. Once he matures to improve his focus, decision making and effort to combine with all those natural gifts he could be an elite two-way superstar.

The question is when a player has this much potential whether they will be willing to be patient, put in the work, and if they’ll buy into maximizing their ability to the full potential.

If he does with his already strong frame natural talent he could end up being the player most discussed five years after the draft.