How former Golden State Warriors are tracking with their new NBA team

Every NBA champion earns a soft spot in the hearts of that particular franchise, and that’s no exception with members of the Golden State Warriors’ 2021-22 championship squad. The team’s slow start to this season has also heightened the loss of key contributors who will forever be etched in the memories of Dubnation.

Some former Golden State Warriors are thriving with their new team, while others are yet to hit the court thanks to ongoing injuries.

Here’s how every player is faring with their new team –

Damion Lee

Lee was often a ‘whipping boy’ among fans but there’s no denying that he brought a steady presence when called upon. The 30-year-old signed a minimum contract with the Phoenix Suns in free agency, and it’s a move that’s paid dividends thus far.

Lee has proven a savvy veteran pickup for the Suns and he’s already played a key role in a number of wins, perhaps most notably their season opener when he nailed a game-winning jumpshot with less than 10 seconds on the clock. He’ll always have a connection to Golden State thanks to the championship and as Stephen Curry’s brother-in-law.

Juan Toscano-Anderson

‘JTA’ was a fan favourite of the fanbase, largely thanks to the fact he grew up in the Oakland area. His story is also a fantastic one of perseverance and resilience that ultimately led to a championship last season.

The 29-year-old signed with the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency and was initially part of their rotation, but has since fallen out of favour with head coach Darvin Ham. The Warriors might not be missing his on-court production, yet at times could have certainly done with his vibrant energy from the bench.

Otto Porter Jr. 

Who could forget that Porter was a starter for the Warriors in their triumphant game six of the NBA Finals. The 29-year-old played a key role but unfortunately, injuries began lurking in the playoffs and have continued in his time now with the Toronto Raptors.

Porter missed the start of the season but returned at the start of November. He played eight games before leaving a November 15th game against the Detroit Pistons with a foot injury. He’s yet to return to the floor but does remain a quality bench piece when healthy.

Gary Payton II

Many fans lamented the loss of Payton in free agency, with the franchise unwilling to match the Portland Trail Blazers’ three-year, $26 million contract. That’s only grown to start the season with the Warriors’ bench and defensive issues, although Payton’s yet to play a game this season anyway. The 29-year-old had abdominal surgery during the offseason, with the Trail Blazers hoping he’ll make his season and team debut this month.