The Golden State Warriors had an active summer. They parted ways with Donte DiVincenzo and Jordan Poole, but added Chris Paul from the Suns. This not only added to the Warriors' bench, but it also gave them an overall makeover. (Pretty sure we can all agree that Chris Paul orchestrating instead of Poole is a very different look.)
Although the Warriors All-Stars and Chris Paul are exciting, the real positive to come out of this offseason is the upgrade of their bench and the abundance of opportunities now available for some formerly overlooked players.
All-Stars aside, it's critical for a team to be able to turn to their bench without a major drop-off in production; and these three underrated Warriors will be crucial to the team's success this season.
Underrated players on Warriors this season:
3. Dario Saric
In addition to bringing CP3 to the Bay, the Warriors also reeled in Dario Šarić, a much needed depth piece. Šarić was originally with the Suns, but was traded mid-season to the Thunder. At 6'10, he'll be the tallest Warrior on the roster.
Šarić is a capable three-point shooter that could bloom under Kerr's offense. His ability to space the floor and knock down shots, paired with his size and passing ability should give the Warriors a lot to work with. Additionally, he's played with Chris Paul before. During their time in Phoenix, they not only made the Finals, but they also developed a great pick-and-pop relationship. Hopefully, they can pick up right where they left off.
Underrated players on Warriors this season:
2. Moses Moody
On a stacked Warriors team where everyone's fighting for minutes, you've got to stand out somehow. Last season, Moses Moody did exactly that, when he became the youngest Goldest State Warrior to ever score 30+ points in a single game.
It doesn't matter whether Moody got 20 minutes or garbage minutes, he always helped the team. After rumors circulated depicting younger Warriors unhappy with their playing time, Moody's team-first attitude clearly impressed Kerr. Here's what Kerr said about the 21-year-old guard:
He (Moody) reminds me a lot of Looney. Incredibly mature, hardworking, understands what we are trying to accomplish, puts the work in everyday. But like Loon, came out at 19 after one college year...it takes time. It took Loon till his fourth year to really contribute...What I love about Loon, about Moses, is the senseof maturity and the sense of work ethic. Steve Kerr
This high praise, paired with the removal of Poole and DiVincenzo should mean more minutes and a breakout season for Moody. During the postseason, Moody was arguably the most consistent bench player for the Warriors. Moody shot 53% from the field and 57% from three. He actually averaged more minutes per game in the playoffs than in the regular season, which shows Kerr's trust in Moody specifically.
Moody is a 6'6 wing defender, with a 7'1 wingspan. Let's face it, that's the makeup of someone who is about to have a long NBA career. At only 21-years-old, Moody has immense potential. At his peak, Moody could very well be an elite role player or even a fringe All-Star. (think Andre Iguoduala.)
Underrated players on Warriors this season:
1. Jonathan Kuminga
Nobody should be more excited about Chris Paul's arrival than Jonathan Kuminga. Even though Chris Paul wasn't pumped about not starting for the Warriors, Chris Paul will have to run the floor without Curry or Klay. That is when Kuminga will reap the benefits.
Curry already commented on the effect Paul has had on Kuminga in pickup games.
"Obviously a great leader in terms of his communication. He's going to get on you, he's going to overcommunicate — and we need that. I've already seen him playing pick up, him helping [Jonathan Kuminga], how to help him run the pick and roll, where to be at, giving him confidence in those type of scenarios. That'll help us in terms of trying to be more cohesive. Stephen CurryDraymond Green made similar comments on Paul George's podcast, saying, "I think Chris Paul will completely unlock Jonathan Kuminga in his growth."
In 20 minutes per game last season, Kuminga averaged nine points, three rebounds, and two assists. Kuminga improved in virtually every statistical category this past season, averaging career highs in points, assists, and rebounds per game. During Wiggins absence Kuminga found some rhythm. However, during the playoffs, Wiggins returned and as a result, 20-year-old's minutes dwindled. Kuminga played four or fewer minutes in nine of the Warriors' 13 playoff games.
Kuminga's combination of size, speed, and athletic ability should pair nicely with Paul. Additionally, a veteran guard like Paul should benefit Kuminga not only on the court but also in his maturity and professionalism off the court.
