3 winners and 1 loser from Golden State Warriors third preseason victory

3. Lester Quinones

Lester Quinones was the biggest positive to take from Golden State’s Summer League campaign, particularly given it came directly after winning the G League’s Most Improved Player award last season.

Since then, it hasn’t quite been smooth sailing for the two-way contracted guard. His form at the FIBA World Cup for the Dominican Republic was far from desirable, and opportunity was sparse against the Lakers in the first two preseason outings.

However, Quinones burst to life and took his chance with both hands against the Kings on Sunday. His performance was more like the promising combo guard who’s shot-making and general style of play has been compared to former Warrior Jordan Poole.

The 22-year-old finished with 18 points, four rebounds and four assists on 6-12 shooting in 24 minutes. He was particularly good late, proving a critical cog to the offense that included a corner three to open overtime. Speaking postgame, Kerr was full of praise for Quinones’ development over the last 12 months.

"“Lester’s a really good player. He used all of last year to make dramatic improvement in Santa Cruz. From training camp last year to now, he’s an entirely different player. That’s a testament to him, his work ethic, his ability to absorb coaching,” Kerr said."

Quinones should have got more opportunity earlier in the game, not just in terms of playing time but also with the ball in his hands more as a creator and decision-maker. He could rightfully feel frustrated that this wasn’t an even more statement-making 25+ point game.