3 Golden State Warriors who have played surprisingly well this season

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 03: Jordan Poole #3 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he made a three-point basket against the Charlotte Hornets in the first half at Chase Center on November 03, 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 Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 03: Jordan Poole #3 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after he made a three-point basket against the Charlotte Hornets in the first half at Chase Center on November 03, 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 Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors player who has excelled: Kevon Looney

James Wiseman was never going to be ready for the start of the season. That gifted Kevon Looney his starting role back, a spot that was expected to be the second-year centers position had he been healthy.

However, now Wiseman may have to fight for it back. Looney is averaging 5.2 points per game, the second-most of his career. He’s also bringing down 6.9 rebounds per game, 2.5 of which are on the offensive glass.

Looney just got over 50% shooting as well, so he’s slowly increasing that as well. Overall, Looney was expected to be impactful, but he wasn’t expected to play like the player that Golden State signed to that 3-year, $15 million deal.

That’s been what they’ve so nicely received from the seventh-year big man. What’s good for Looney is that his improved play should help him vie for some time even if Wiseman were to return at a high level.

His rebounding, especially offensively, has bought them some big-time second chances. The Warriors are 4-0 when Looney snags at least four offensive boards.