Does Klay Thompson’s return at shooting guard make it undoubtedly the deepest position on the Golden State Warriors roster?
Without Thompson, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr had to use a committee approach at the position at it largely worked to terrific effect as several of those players remain on the Dubs roster.
Although D’Angelo Russell was quickly shipped to Minnesota and Alec Burks, despite enjoying an outstanding year was sent to Philadelphia in a cap dump, the Warriors found some hidden gems on their roster. Those gems have certainly bolstered depth at the position on the Dubs roster.
Damion Lee is the most notable example, as the former Atlanta Hawk enjoyed a prolific year as he converted his two-way deal into a long-term deal. Lee averaged a strong 12.7 points, 4.9 rebounds and shot over 35% from deep and is line to feature as Klay’s primary backup next season.
Mychal Mulder arrived in the Warriors camp pre lockdown and enjoyed a strong spell in the Bay.
Although he endured a difficult game against the Los Angeles Clippers, he averaged 14.4 points on 40 percent shooting from 3-point range in the five games prior. Mulder will likely be in contention for a roster spot next season.
Lastly, the Dubs have Jordan Poole.
Poole, who initially struggled to find his footing at the NBA level settled in the early 2020 months in a playmaking role, his shot gradually improved too. Poole will likely spread his minutes across both positions.
Despite Thompson coming off a significant injury, this group is arguably in the best shape of any position on the Dubs roster and they still have the chance to bolster it should they wish.
However, the Warriors are unlikely to pursue a two-guard with the second overall pick with Anthony Edwards expected to be taken by the Timberwolves. In addition, with other depth issues on the roster, it makes little sense to invest the $17m trade exception on a shooting guard.
Nevertheless, if Golden State wants to find an experienced option to add some much-needed age to the second unit it isn’t beyond the realms of possibility that Burks returns to the Bay.
Regardless of what happens shooting guard is arguably the deepest position on the Warriors and with Thompson returning the group is well stocked.