Without Jonathan Kuminga, we might not be looking at a playoff series that leans Atlanta's way.
In Monday's Game 2 upset victory against the New York Knicks, Kuminga's energy, tough shot-making ability, and staunch defense were exactly what the doctor ordered.
A few days ago, this was anything but the truth—Kuminga's dismal Game 1 performance may not have cost Atlanta a chance at a 1-0 series lead, but it certainly didn't help in any regard. Thanks to Game 2, it's extremely likely that Kuminga will be seeing far more extensive burn in Coach Snyder's playoff rotation.
Snyder's genius move wouldn't have been possible without Kuminga
Quin Snyder made an absolutely vital adjustment against the Knicks late in Game 2—he took the offensive liability Dyson Daniels out in favor of the more aggressive and scoring-heavy talent in Jonathan Kuminga.
While Daniels' defense has been a godsend in an otherwise catastrophic effort to mitigate Jalen Brunson's colossal offensive impact, his offense has been anything but—New York's ability to sag multiple feet off the non-shooter has clogged scoring opportunities in the paint for the Hawks while Daniels occupies the floor.
Quin Snyder's decision to bench Daniels—while risky—was proven correct thanks to Kuminga's quick decision-making and consistent ability to burn the Knicks on the interior in the clutch. Making three tough paint buckets (including converting on a huge and-one opportunity) in the fourth quarter, Kuminga single-handedly put the Knicks on the back foot as the game drew to an end.
Kuminga's role as an energy man is exactly what Hawks needed
Snyder's utilization of Kuminga as an energy scorer off the bench couldn't be a better fit for the young talent acquired from the Warriors a few months back.
While Kristaps Porzingis' tenure in Atlanta was beneficial to the organization thanks to his impact on and off the court, Kuminga is undoubtedly the better fit for the Hawks, and it showed in Game 2.
While Porzingis' slow feet and inconsistent health have been apparent in Golden State, Kuminga's reliable scoring is perfect for the Hawks in desperate need of alternative scoring to CJ McCollum's masterful control when he's on the hardwood.
If the Hawks are to emerge victorious against New York in this brutal, bludgeoning series, Kuminga will need to continue his sensational scoring output from the bench. Don't be surprised if Coach Snyder even promotes Kuminga to a starting role if his impact continues to transcend expectations.
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