Jonathan Kuminga gave the Minnesota Timberwolves a bright spot in a 128-106 preseason loss to the Detroit Pistons at Target Center, scoring 16 points on 5-of-6 shooting.
Kuminga hit 2 of his 3 threes and added four rebounds and three assists, as first reported by ClutchPoints, and Chris Finch singled out his quick decision-making afterward. Detroit took over in the second quarter, forcing 10 turnovers and turning them into 16 points. Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 20, and the Wolves dropped to 3-2 in exhibition play.
Kuminga had sat out Monday against New York with general soreness, with Finch saying the team was being “overly cautious” with his bumps and bruises.
The IAHHM Take
This is a fresh start in every sense. Kuminga spent his first five seasons in Golden State, finished last season in Atlanta after a deadline trade, then signed a two-year deal with Minnesota in free agency. Across both stops in 2025-26, he averaged 12.5 points and 4.2 rebounds. Efficient nights like this are how he proves he’s more than a highlight athlete.
And Carolina fans, you already know why we’re watching this team. The Wolves are building a starting five around LaMelo Ball, Edwards, Jaden McDaniels, Rudy Gobert and Kuminga. Ball landed in Minnesota after Charlotte traded him and Josh Green for Naz Reid, a 2033 unprotected first, three first-round swaps and three second-rounders, per the AP. Six seasons, one All-Star nod, no playoff trips in Charlotte.
Melo dishing to Ant and a downhill Kuminga in transition? That could be the most fun team in the West, or a chemistry experiment. Minnesota wraps the preseason Friday against the Bulls at the United Center.
Is this the year LaMelo finally plays meaningful spring basketball? Tell us.
More NBA preseason: Kawhi’s back in Toronto, and the Raptors beat the Knicks by 50.
Source: ClutchPoints
