3 Warriors with the most to prove if Covid-19 protocols impact Dubs

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - MAY 10: Juan Toscano-Anderson #95 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after teammate Jordan Poole #3 made a shot from behind half court at the end of the third period against the Utah Jazz at Chase Center on May 10, 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) /

3 of 4

Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Golden State Warriors player with most to prove: Otto Porter Jr.

Another player that has stepped up this season and could see a larger role is former top-five pick Otto Porter Jr.

Porter Jr. was signed this offseason in what was a surprising veteran’s minimum deal. While he could see an expanded role with players on the Covid-19 list, Porter Jr. should also be fighting for a rotational spot when it ultimately reduces to around 8.

Porter Jr. has been terrific for Golden State, shooting 45% from the field and 39% from deep. He held that 40% mark from deep for quite a while as well. With that in mind, he still isn’t seeing many minutes, currently at 19.5 per game.

The veteran forward has a 40.1% career three-point average, and that’s been a key reason why he’s been impactful for Golden State. Can Porter Jr. become more of a scorer is the real question. He’s sitting at just 7.4 points per game.

Porter Jr. averaged over 14 points per 36 minutes for five straight seasons. He’s at 13.7 this season. He can score, but in this system, will the opportunities be there for him?

If they are, he must capitalize, and if Covid-19 protocols take away Andrew Wiggins (Wiggins was recently reported to be in the league’s health and safety protocols) or Draymond Green, Porter Jr. will instantly see a drastically expanded role.

Home/Warriors News