The Golden State Warriors are poised to close out their first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, heading into Game 5 with a 3-1 series lead. A victory would secure their spot in the Western Conference Semi-Finals, likely facing the Minnesota Timberwolves or Los Angeles Lakers next. However, the Warriors face a setback with Jonathan Kuminga ruled out due to illness, which could impact their depth. Kuminga has contributed when needed, especially in Game 3. The Rockets, eager to defend their home court, will look to extend the series through a win at home.

The Golden State Warriors are poised to take a 3-1 lead in their first-round series against the Houston Rockets, with Game 4 being pivotal. Star forward Jimmy Butler has returned to the lineup after missing Game 2 due to injury, contributing four points, two rebounds, and one assist in the first quarter. Coach Steve Kerr has opted for a strategic rotation, starting Buddy Hield in place of Moses Moody, while Jonathan Kuminga finds himself benched once more, a continuation from the end of the regular season.

Butler's reintegration into the lineup has forced Kerr to adjust his game plan. Despite Kuminga's solid play in the previous games, he is sidelined as the Warriors rely on a different player dynamic. The decision to bench Kuminga reflects the coach's commitment to optimizing his star players' effectiveness as he aims for a deeper playoff run.

The Golden State Warriors are set to take on the Houston Rockets in Game 4, aiming for a commanding 3-1 series lead after winning Game 3 despite being without star forward Jimmy Butler due to injury. Thankfully for the Warriors, Butler has been cleared to play in the upcoming game, boosting their chances significantly. Head coach Steve Kerr now faces a strategic decision on how to utilize Jonathan Kuminga, who has remained on the bench for much of the series. NBA legend Charles Barkley has emphasized the importance of getting Kuminga into the game, citing his athleticism as a crucial asset against stronger opponents.

As the Warriors prepare for this pivotal matchup, the pressure is on to effectively manage their frontcourt, which has struggled throughout the series. Draymond Green has been a key player, alongside Kevon Looney and Quinten Post, but Barkley's call for increased minutes for Kuminga could provide the spark they need. The Warriors' ability to adapt their game plan in response to Butler's return and how they deploy Kuminga could dictate the outcome of this crucial playoff game.

The Golden State Warriors are poised to make a significant impact in their playoff series against the Houston Rockets, having taken Game 1 with stellar performances from Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler. Butler's absence in Game 2 due to injury allowed the Rockets to level the series, but the Warriors rallied in Game 3, with Curry stepping up to lead the charge. As Game 4 approaches, Butler's potential return from a pelvis and glute injury has sparked optimism among the Warriors, who are looking to assert their dominance with a 3-1 lead in the series. The team is weighing the risks of playing Butler too soon against the benefits of his presence on the court, especially after his injury occurred during a contested rebound in Game 2. Meanwhile, the Rockets will be without Jae’Sean Tate, although Jock Landale's return could bolster their lineup.

Jonathan Kuminga, the Golden State Warriors forward, is set to become a restricted free agent this summer, raising uncertainty about his future with the team. Coach Steve Kerr's decision to limit Kuminga's playing time in crucial games, including the playoffs, has fueled speculation of a possible sign-and-trade to the Brooklyn Nets. Analysts believe the Nets, with their ample cap space and lack of immediate playoff pressure, could provide a more favorable environment for Kuminga's development.

During the 2024-25 season, Kuminga averaged 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists across 47 games, but his shooting percentages—45.4% overall and just 30.5% from three—highlight areas for improvement. As the Warriors face the prospect of losing him without compensation, a sign-and-trade seems increasingly viable.