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Golden State Warriors: 3 reasons to love the Dubs 2019 NBA Draft

By Christian Evans

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 20: Jordan Poole poses with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted with the 28th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors during the 2019 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 20, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JUNE 20: Jordan Poole poses with NBA Commissioner Adam Silver after being drafted with the 28th overall pick by the Golden State Warriors during the 2019 NBA Draft at the Barclays Center on June 20, 2019 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by JNoah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by JNoah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

They have retained their G-League stud

Perhaps the most significant outcome in the draft was the fact the Warriors were able to retain one of their most impressive prospects. This was despite the Warriors having to trade a couple of future second rounders.

Smailagic was unable to enter the 2018 draft and faced the prospect at having to return to Europe. However, the Warriors had other ideas and immediately signed him to their G-League affiliate Santa Cruz Warriors.

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The Dubs realised Smailagic’s potential and saw the fruits of that investment in 2018-19 and displayed such promise, it left the Warriors willing to forego future draft picks to keep one of their best young assets.

Although the young Serbian Center didn’t average great numbers in the G-League, averaging 9.1 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 24.4% from deep. However, it must be taken into account Smailagic was a mere 17 years of age and was deemed to be one of the future.

The Serbian has a strong skillet for a big man, a sharpshooting big is a rare commodity in many ways and had been on the Warriors radar for a long time. The Dubs can now stash their prospect away from their rivals.

Another year in the G-League feels like a foregone conclusion at this point. However, should the Warriors need the Center depth during the season, don’t be surprised to see Smailagic promoted to bolster depth.

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