3 – How much juice can the “others” provide?
That is to say, how much muscle is the “Strength in Numbers” squad truly packing? Is this a team that can go eight or even 10 deep at times in the postseason? Will we see certain specialist players make brief appearances?
Or, will this rotation be razor-thin with few changes being made throughout the playoffs?
It’s hard to imagine someone like Gary Payton II won’t receive bursts of minutes due to his production as a perimeter defender. Though he is limited offensively, GP2 has done enough to show his worth and his consistency is admirable.
Otto Porter Jr. is another role player who has shown he can be trusted. He’s been an efficient 3-point shooter all year and is carrying his weight on the glass, hauling in close to 6 rebounds per game.
From here, things get murky. Nemanja Bejlica has arguably been the most hit-or-miss member of the roster, aside from Damion Lee. The two of them could have a big impact on a playoff series but their inconsistencies will most likely hold them back.
Then, there is Andre Iguodala. The 38-year-old has always been at the core of Golden State’s success but how much juice can he truly provide at this point? Will Juan Toscano-Anderson be his pseudo replacement? We will have to wait and see what the official playoff rotation looks like for Golden State.