Do the Golden State Warriors have enough depth at point guard?
Are the Golden State Warriors too thin at point guard?
With D’Angelo Russell expected to fulfill the shooting guard role, the question remains who will actually be the backup point guard behind Golden State Warriors franchise star Steph Curry this season? All signs point to sophomore Jacob Evans.
The Warriors point guard depth was arguably the strongest part of the team last season with Curry, Shaun Livingston and Quinn Cook, the latter two moving onto pastures new.
Only Evans remains a viable option unless Russell plays point but that leaves question marks regarding who plays shooting guard especially until Klay Thompson returns from injury.
It is a conundrum that isn’t ideal for Steve Kerr considering Curry’s injury history but the Warriors have underlined their faith in Evans and are confident he can be impactful as a point guard.
There are signs to be cautiously optimistic with Evans displaying signs of promise as a point guard, averaging 16.3 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists during Las Vegas Summer League action.
The summer league also displayed signs of a blossoming backcourt partnership between the former Bearcat and rookie Jordan Poole, often fulfilling his role as a facilitator. If Evans and Poole’s chemistry keeps growing, they could develop into focal points of the second unit.
But whether Summer League translates into the regular season and playoff success is another story. However, one thing is for certain is that Evans will likely remain Curry’s backup.
Nevertheless, the Dubs do indeed rate the former Bearcat highly as assistant general manager Larry Harris said on the Damon Bruce show.
"“We think that Jacob’s skill level is really two things: He’s got a high basketball IQ and he can defend. He’s a willing passer, so for us (we want to) get a chance to see if he could be that third point guard for us coming off the bench and go from there.”"
However, it shouldn’t be a problem as long as Curry remains relatively healthy throughout the season. But if history is anything to go by, Evans will be needed and hopefully, coach Kerr’s trust will be repaid.