Warriors player that must step up: Juan Toscano-Anderson
It’s not just guards that are going to see increased opportunity. Everyone on the team, especially as Poole shifts in the starting lineup, should see a small uptick. JTA is one of the Warriors’ key hustle players off the bench.
Offseason additions like Nemanja Bjelica, Otto Porter Jr. and Andre Iguodala have all taken a hit off JTA’s minutes.
He’s averaging just 13.9 per game this season after being at 20.9 per game the last two years. That’s not to say his efficiency has decreased. He’s still hitting 49% of his field goals; however, his shooting has come back to reality, just 31% from deep instead of 40% last season.
Per 36 minutes, his scoring has actually increased, so he’s had a positive season. Now, with Curry sidelined and Green potentially seeing limited minutes, JTA’s time to shine is now, and it could help keep him with Golden State for the long-term future.
JTA is on just a one-year deal for the Warriors, so this could be a make-or-break few weeks for his future in both the organization and league in general.