3 Ways D’Angelo Russell will change the Golden State Warriors (Film)

3. Playmaking

D’Angelo Russell is a talented playmaker and he will instantly affect the way the Golden State Warriors generate offense. The Dubs have always had capable playmakers in the lineup, but never a true point guard to set up Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.

Take a look at this first play here:

A quick screen at the top of the key sets up a drive for D-Lo, who then looks off the defenders and zips a pass to the corner for a wide-open 3-pointer. It should be easy to imagine Curry or Thompson on the other end of this pass, ready to shoot.

Next, a similar play:

Take notice of how Russell keeps his head up at all times in transition and is a willing passer. He understands where to put this pass so that Spencer Dinwiddie can catch it in stride and pull from deep. This type of awareness will get the Dubs a ton of easy buckets.

However, Russell won’t only open up things on the perimeter:

Watch how he delays the pass as long as possible to give Jarret Allen the space he needs to finish this basket. A perfectly thrown lob pass gives him all the leeway needed for the bucket. This type of connection with the Dubs big-men will keep opposing defenses on their heels at all times.

There is a reason that D-Lo averaged 7.0 assists per game last season. He is a gifted passer and understands how to get his teammate’s open looks. Shooting should be easier than ever for Curry and Klay.