Kuminga Struggled in Timberwolves Preseason Loss
The Timberwolves fell to the Pacers 123-112 as Jonathan Kuminga finished with two points.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Basketball
The Minnesota Timberwolves lost 123-112 to the Indiana Pacers in a preseason game. Jonathan Kuminga struggled on the floor, scoring only two points during his 19 minutes of play.
Why it matters
The preseason performance highlights early challenges for Kuminga after he signed a two-year, $12.4 million deal with the team. Integrating new high-value roster additions remains a priority for the organization as they prepare for the regular season.
Kuminga shot 1-for-9 from the field in 19 minutes of action, recording only two points. The Timberwolves ultimately fell to the Indiana Pacers with a final score of 123-112.
The players
Jonathan Kuminga
He is a 24-year-old NBA player and former No. 7 overall draft pick who recently signed a two-year, $12.4 million contract with the Timberwolves.
Minnesota Timberwolves
This is a professional basketball team competing in the NBA's Western Conference.
Indiana Pacers
This is a professional basketball team based in Indianapolis that competes in the NBA's Eastern Conference.
The details
Kuminga, the No. 7 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, failed to convert several opportunities near the rim and missed multiple attempts from beyond the arc. The 24-year-old was unable to find his rhythm throughout the contest, shooting poorly from both midrange and long distance.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: The Timberwolves played the Pacers in a preseason game.
Season Trajectory
This performance complicates the early season narrative for the Timberwolves, who invested significant capital in Kuminga this offseason. His ability to improve his shooting efficiency will be critical to the team's depth and rotation stability throughout the upcoming year.
Kuminga's 1-for-9 shooting night suggests limited immediate impact for fantasy rotations and raises questions about his role in the starting lineup. His career 33.2% outside shooting percentage will need to stabilize to justify his $12.4 million contract.
The takeaway
Preseason games offer teams a chance to integrate new talent, but poor shooting nights can create early pressure on high-paid players. Consistency and shot selection remain the primary areas for growth as the regular season approaches.
Further reading
For more analysis on team rosters and player development, visit the Basketball section.
