Golden State Warriors: Analyzing guard battle at training camp

The Golden State Warriors searched through every nook and cranny this offseason to find a suitable backup point guard. Now, with a list of guards set to compete against one another in training camp — who will ultimately win the spot?

Training camp is going to be a fun way for the Golden State Warriors to determine who will play backup point guard this season.

The camp began on Tuesday with names such as Avery Bradley, Langston Galloway, Gary Payton II and Chris Chiozza all competing for a roster spot. Each guard has something they can bring to the table and a reason to be considered.

Bradley is the most obvious candidate for the job. He’s a veteran guard who has built a reputation for elite perimeter defense, sound decisions making and efficient 3-point shooting. Bradley had a shakey 2020-21 season but could bounce back quickly with the Dubs.

Then there is Payton, a player who has the benefit of already playing for the Warriors late last season and in the Summer League. He’s a younger version of Bradley in terms of defense, though he has not established himself quite as well just yet. Where Payton begins to falter is his offense. He is not much of a threat to score the ball even though he has shot well in small spurts as of late.

As for Galloway, offense is his calling card. At least, in terms of 3-point shooting in which he is fresh off a career-best 42 percent season from behind the line. Galloway is not a great playmaker and has his inconsistencies on defense — but he is an interesting darkhorse candidate to play a role with the Warriors this season.

It is less likely Chiozza finds himself suiting up for the Warriors. The 5’11” guard has not found a home yet in the NBA and it does not seem like the Dubs will be able to offer him an opportunity.

However, the battle for the backup point guard position will not just occur between the fringe roster spots. In fact, more solidified rotational players like Jordan Poole and Moses Moody should be looking to showcase their playmaking skills as much as possible.

The added value of Poole or Moody being able to tackle ball-handling responsibilities would add a much-needed cushion to the Warriors’ thin lineup.

Training camp is going to give us some insight as to who is best suited for the backup position this season. With so many interesting guards competing, the Warriors appear to be in good hands.