Golden State Warriors: 1 aspect for every player to improve upon – Moses Moody

As the 2023-24 NBA season draws near, Blue Man Hoop will focus on one aspect of potential improvement for every Warrior player.

Fueled by meaningful playing time during the 2023 playoffs, there’s plenty of optimism that Moses Moody can grow into the consistent rotation player the Golden State Warriors had hoped for last regular season.

Moody appeared in 63 games for the Warriors in his second year, but his playing time was rather sporadic and never really provided him the opportunity to spread his wings. It was these struggles that led to his nickname ‘stay ready’ when the former lottery pick made an impact late in the season.

Steve Kerr’s lack of trust in Moody largely emanated from the defensive side of the floor, although it’s also true that he needs to become more decisive in Golden State’s read-and-react offense. Standing At 6’6″ with a 7’1″ wingspan, the 21-year-old’s physical tools are yet to materialize into a reliable wing defender.

Perimeter defense and forcing more jumpshots

One aspect Moody does do well is use his reach to contest jumpshots effectively. Over his first two seasons in the league, opposing three-point shooters nail less than 32% of their attempts when guarded by Moody. In comparison, two of the Warriors’ best perimeter defenders, Andrew Wiggins and Gary Payton II, each had a defensive field-goal percentage of at least 38.8% on three-point shots.

The issue isn’t with Moody’s ability to contest jumpers, but more so his ability to force them in isolation. Too many times last season he was beaten off the dribble by quicker and more agile guards, allowing easier looks at the rim or forcing the Warrior defense to collapse which can lead to open threes on the weak side.

Ratio of shots contested from within six feet compared to three-point range (2022-23)

Andrew Wiggins -1

Gary Payton II – 1.17

Moses Moody – 1.33

These statistics essentially show that Moody contests a greater percentage of shots at the rim than three-point range, in comparison to Wiggins and Payton. While their respective roles and position may influence these, there’s no doubt that Moody’s lack of lateral movement contributes to this.

Not only can Moody become the solid defender that allows him an 18-20+ minute rotation role, but he still holds the potential to be an above average wing defender. Combined with being a steady three-point shooter and sneakily athletic finisher at the rim, expect him to become an integral member for the Warriors this season.