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Golden State Warriors: Damion Lee no longer fits the rotation

By Tony Pesta

ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 25: Damion Lee #1 of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on March 25, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - MARCH 25: Damion Lee #1 of the Golden State Warriors reacts during the second half against the Atlanta Hawks at State Farm Arena on March 25, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. 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 Todd Kirkland/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors have to start narrowing down the rotation for playoff time. If any player has proven they no longer fit, it is Damion Lee.

Lee has had an up and down career with the Dubs. An inspiring underdog story led him to be one of the biggest surprises of last season. When he started the 2021-22 season strong on both ends of the floor, it felt like Lee would be a long-term contributor for the franchise.

This production has plummetted since the new year, though. Lee is no longer efficiently spacing the floor or playing notable defense on the perimeter. It might be time to make a change and adjust the rotation accordingly.

The Golden State Warriors should cut their losses and take Damion Lee out of the rotation as his production has trailed off significantly.

Since the All-Star break, Lee is averaging 6.5 points on 20% shooting from the 3-point line. He’s committing unnecessary fouls and missing wide-open jumpers that could swing momentum in the Dubs’ favor.

Meanwhile, Moses Moody is scoring 6.9 points and shooting close to 40% from deep in fewer minutes than Lee. Rather than stunting momentum, Moody has made numerous hustle plays to revitalize the Warriors at key moments.

Giving the 19-year-old rookie playing time over a 29-year-old Lee might seem like a shortsighted move from a team with high hopes for the playoffs. However, it is important to remember that despite his age, Lee has only played consistent NBA minutes for roughly three years. The gap in experience is not big enough to make a difference.

Lee is almost certainly playing heavy minutes at the moment due to Stephen Curry’s injury. Soon, the Dubs should begin reverting Lee to a reserve role and focusing on how names like Moody and Gary Payton II can fill the gaps.

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