Biggest Questions Surrounding the Golden State Warriors in 2013-14
By John Kim
How Will Their Bench Fare?
Apr 23, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets center Kosta Koufos (41) and Golden State Warriors center Andrew Bogut (12) watch as small forward Harrison Barnes (40) attempts to keep the ball in play in the second quarter during game two in the first round of the 2013 NBA playoffs at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Jarrett Jack and Carl Landry were both vital to the Warriors’ success last season. Their great seasons were validated by their new contracts with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Sacramento Kings, respectively. Jack agreed to a four-year, $25 million contract, while Landry signed a four-year, $26 million contract.
Jermaine O’Neal is a six-time All-Star, but at the age of 34, he will be the oldest Warrior. He has suffered multiple season-ending injuries throughout his career, and thus, is not the most physically reliable center the Warriors could have signed. In any case, he does provide a veteran presence with ample playoff experience.
Marreese Speights is a big man that specializes in the pick-and-pop. Last season, he shot 48.4 from just inside the three-point line. He should be able to make up for the loss of Landry to a certain degree.
Toney Douglas has been a defensive specialist that locked down Stephen Curry in head-to-head matchups. Douglas is a direct downgrade from Jack, but simply taking him off the market helps the Warriors.