3 Golden State Warriors with the most to prove over the last five games

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 25: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors handles the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center on April 25, 2021 in San Francisco, California. 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 Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - APRIL 25: Kevon Looney #5 of the Golden State Warriors handles the ball during the game against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center on April 25, 2021 in San Francisco, California. 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 Daniel Shirey/Getty Images)
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Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors player with the most to prove: Kevon Looney

The Golden State Warriors recently added Jordan Bell. Bell was a former second-round pick for the Dubs. He was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the same deal that brought Andrew Wiggins to the Bay Area.

Bell’s arrival will cut into Kevon Looney’s playing time as there is now a capable second big man. Looney needs to show the coaching staff that he can be better over these last five games. He’s been playing well but not good enough.

On the season, Looney is averaging 4.1 points and 4.8 rebounds per game in 18.4 minutes per game. Since James Wiseman‘s season-ending injury, Looney has been asked to start and play more minutes.

He’s delivered and has done what’s been expected of him.

But, with Bell and his athleticism coming to town, if Looney doesn’t become a slightly more efficient and impactful scorer, he may be quickly replaced by Bell, who should operate better in pick-and-roll sets.