Hawks are trying to unlock a Jonathan Kuminga skill the Warriors ignored

Jonathan Stockton has entered the chat. Alright, that's admittedly dramatic, but the Atlanta Hawks do seem intrigued with Jonathan Kuminga's passing ability. In his Hawks debut, he had four assists, prompting a compliment from Nickeil Alexander-Walker. Then, in his second game with the team, Kuminga had three assists, and head coach Quin Snyder also noted his potential passing prowess.

"I think he's really focused on moving the ball and being unselfish. I thought he made a couple of passes tonight that were really impressive, just looking a guy off and seeing the court..."

These don't seem like offhanded comments, either. People within the organization seem thrilled with Kuminga's playmaking ability, which is something he never really displayed in Golden State. In fact, his lack of feel for the game was the biggest knock most folks had on him. So this is an extremely pleasant surprise for Hawks fans. If he can marry his bullyball scoring with an elevated ability to make the extra pass, that version of Kuminga could be a hell of a player.

Hawks are trying to turn Kuminga into an all-around wing

Were Hawks fans propagandized by what they heard about Kuminga from the Bay Area? If you only listened to Warriors fans, you may think Kuminga forgets the rules of basketball every time he steps on the court. But after just two games in The A, both players and coaches alike are complimenting Kuminga on immediately understanding his role and his willingness to distribute the ball. That's a stark difference.

I don't foresee Kuminga ever becoming a 5-plus assist per game guy. Point Kuminga is probably not on the table. But he doesn't need to be that! If he can move the ball like Snyder already praised him for doing and not be a black hole when the ball is in his hands, that's a huge (and somewhat unexpected) win.

Kuminga's relationship with Warriors coach Steve Kerr was obviously a strained one. So to hear Quin Snyder speak so highly of JK — especially about a skill that wasn't utilized at all in Golden State — is pretty encouraging for Hawks fans.

Maybe it hasn't been the dream season everyone wanted, but Kuminga is balling out, Magic City Monday is next month, Jalen Johnson was an All-Star, and the Hawks still have the Pelicans pick in this year's draft. There is beauty everywhere if you have the eyes to see it.