Golden State Warriors: So far, so good
By Greg Chin
Jan 3, 2014; Atlanta, GA, USA; Golden State Warriors small forward
Harrison Barnes(40) shows emotion with small forward
Andre Iguodala(9) against the Atlanta Hawks in the fourth quarter at Philips Arena. The Warriors defeated the Hawks 101-100. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
- What is the rotation going to be? Does Harrison Barnes or Andre Iguodala start?
So far, Kerr has remained steadfast with his decision to start Barnes over Iguodala.
It’s paid dividends for Barnes, who looks more like the breakout rookie during the Warriors’ 2013 playoff run. His main role on offense is to cut hard and make easy baskets. He isn’t expected to run the offense or handle the ball too frequently. In fact, 62.2 percent of his field goal attempts do not involve him dribbling the ball at all.
On defense, Barnes has held his own ground against some of the bigger names in the league. He’s played against the following notable small forwards: Rudy Gay, Nicholas Batum, Trevor Ariza, Kawhi Leonard, Matt Barnes, Joe Johnson. On average, his opponents are shooting 5.5 percent worse than their season average in two-pointers when Barnes is the defender of the shot in question.
His length, athleticism, and energy are all good tools for the Warriors’ starting lineup. His role is simple: play defense, cut hard, make easy baskets.