The Golden State Warriors managed to secure a much-needed 109-105 victory against the Phoenix Suns on Saturday.
Jonathan Kuminga led the way for the Warriors, tying his career-high with 34 points, while Dennis Schroder made critical plays in the final moments to seal the win.
Draymond Green believes this game could be the spark the team needs to turn its season around.
“When I look at where the season turned, it turned in San Antonio and Brooklyn, those back-to-back games,” Green said.
“That was the turning point. There’s no reason why this can’t be a turning point to turn it back. But you got to build on it though. It just don’t happen.
“You’re not out of the woods. We’re 16 and 15, so we got to put some wins together. I think we’re capable of doing that.”
The game was far from easy for Golden State. Coming off consecutive losses to the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers, the Warriors found themselves trailing for much of Saturday’s contest despite Green scoring all 16 of his points in the first half.
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Both Green and Steph Curry, who sat out Friday’s game, returned to action but faced stiff resistance from Phoenix.
Kuminga delivered an outstanding performance off the bench, shooting 12-for-20 from the field, earning 12 trips to the free-throw line, grabbing nine rebounds, and handing out three assists.
His scoring and defensive effort against Durant were pivotal in keeping the Warriors in the game.
The tide turned with just over a minute remaining when Schroder, who has struggled since being traded to Golden State two weeks ago, hit a clutch 3-pointer following an offensive rebound by Andrew Wiggins.
Moments later, Schroder forced a turnover from Durant, drew a loose-ball foul, and sank critical free throws to secure the win.
Kuminga’s impressive performance marked his second consecutive 34-point outing, a feat that has drawn praise from his team-mates and coach Steve Kerr.
After being removed from the starting lineup earlier in the season, Kuminga has responded with energy and consistency.
“It just feels like he’s turning a corner, and he played so hard last night, and again tonight,” Kerr said.
“This is exactly what we’re looking for, and it’s fun to see him deliver.”
Green added: “He’s one of the most talented guys on the team, by far, and it’s good to see him playing the way he’s playing.
“We just need him to stay that aggressive. When he’s on the court, we’re going to feature him, and it’s on him to do the rest, and he’s doing it. He’s more than capable, and he’ll continue to get better, and he’ll continue to do more.”
