Golden State Warriors: Why Willie Cauley-Stein is a better fit than Cousins
Offensive fit
With the addition of D’Angelo Russell, it is believed the Dubs will look to lean more on the pick and roll in 2019-20. Kerr could quite possibly increase usage when Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are off the floor.
Part of what appealed to the Warriors about Willie Cauley-Stein, I'm told, is his pick-and-roll ability. Personnel will force them to run more this upcoming season. WCS can operate up top with both Steph Curry and -- especially when Curry/Draymond sit -- D'Angelo Russell.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) July 2, 2019
The pick and roll proved to be an outlet for Russell to create his most effective offense as the former Brooklyn Net made his first All-Star appearance. In Cauley-Stein the Dubs might have found Russell the perfect partner.
Cauley-Stein was involved in 3.2 pick and roll possessions per game for Sacramento in 2018-19. The closest Warrior to that was Cousins at 1.4 per Forbes, Coach Kerr is believed to be looking at increased pick and roll usage in 2019-20.
I can confirm that Willie Cauley-Stein is on his way to Golden State. With Cauley-Stein and D'Angelo Russell now on board, Warriors potentially becoming much more of a pick-and-roll team. https://t.co/CfBfVYQjhO
— Connor Letourneau (@Con_Chron) July 2, 2019
Despite, Cauley-Stein’s pick and roll prowess, the former Kentucky alum has also displayed signs of an increased skillset during his stint in Sacramento including an improved three-point shot.
The former King shot 50% from deep in 2018-19, a career-best. While Cauley-Stein has developed into a solid post passer averaging 2.4 assists per game. While adding a decent 11.9 points per game.
dark. Next. Top 25 Golden State Warriors in franchise history
Although those aren’t stats that jump off the page, it will add another dimension to the Warriors offense and one that can hopefully take the Dubs back to the top.