Grading second-unit v Lakers
Brandin Podziemski (A-)
Wow. More impressive in this game than any of his Summer League outings. Look composed as a ball handler and playmaker, further solidifying the 19th overall pick as a point-guard more than a shooting-guard. Impacted the game in so many ways, finishing with 11 points (5-11 shooting), six rebounds and four assists. Active defensively with a steal and a block, while also taking a charge at one point in transition. Very exciting performance!
Gary Payton II (C+)
The first preseason and yet ‘GPII’ was acting as if it were a Finals game. That’s the sort of high-intensity attitude the 30-year-old brings which invigorates the crowd and teammates. Ran the floor well in transition and dove on loose balls. Missed his only three-point attempt but otherwise a very solid 10 minutes.
Moses Moody (A-)
Aggressive, decisive and substantial performance with 15 points, four rebounds and two assists. Took 13 shot attempts in his 24 minutes including six threes. Got beaten off the dribble on a couple of occasions but nonetheless an incredibly encouraging display.
Jonathan Kuminga (A-)
Only five turnovers held this grading back from being an A+. Largely went against the Lakers reserves but was the most dominant figure on the floor which is what you wanted to see from the third-year forward. 24 points on an efficient 8-14 shooting and 4-8 from three-point range — will be interesting to see when opposition teams start respecting his jumpshot.
Eight rebounds was the most impressive element though, crashing the glass rather than simply looking for leak out baskets in transition. That was part of a very active night defensively that also included two blocks. Year three leap incoming!
Dario Saric (B)
Took less than five minutes to confirm that the Croatian will be a perfect fit in the Golden State system. Showcased his offensive skillset with a pair of triples and some beautiful passes that resulted in three assists. Perhaps some defensive issues but that’s unlikely to get exploited against backup bigs. Only early but appears an excellent veteran fit next to the younger players.