Golden State Warriors: Moses Moody rookie season preview

The Golden State Warriors are cautiously optimistic that Moses Moody can enter the NBA and have an impact on their success almost immediately. But, what exactly should we expect from the teenager in his first professional season?

Moses Moody is entering his rookie season with measured but high expectations. How much should the Golden State Warriors expect from him?

To begin, let’s examine the role Moody will play for the Warriors. His job will evolve throughout the season but we can expect Moody to enter the year as one of the first guards off the bench. Or, potentially even a starter in order to keep the second unit strong with Jordan Poole leading the charge.

Regardless, Moody’s role will be simple. Shoot 3-pointers and play adequate defense. He’s already been a premiere shooter on every team he’s ever played for so this first part should be easy. Moody was a volume shooter in college and had no fear of jacking up shots at an efficient rate in the Las Vegas Summer League.

The Warriors will likely put Moody in similar positions as Poole and Klay Thompson. Utilizing him off-ball and generating as many catch-and-shoot opportunities will be best for Moody’s introduction to the NBA.

Playing defense will be a bit more of a challenge. The Warriors can not assume Moody will pick up all of the intangible skills that so often make or break a great defender. But, the Dubs can count on Moody’s physical gifts such as his alien-like wingspan and average athleticism. Moody’s size will allow the Dubs to utilize him in versatile ways.

Thompson’s return will be a decisive moment for Moody. At this point, he’ll be pushed behind Thompson and Poole in the rotation. His minutes will be even more dependant on his performances.

A limited role for Moody next season is not a bad thing. He should not hold too much responsibility in terms of creating for others or even himself. Keeping it simple and using every moment of playing time to learn is about as much as we can expect from Moody.

In his first season, the 19-year-old should be looking to embrace his role as a spot-up shooter and defender. Putting in the work each day to polish his game will help him stay on the floor as the pressure mounts and Golden State prepares for a playoff run.