In an almost perfect preseason, the Golden State Warriors still have one final question to answer. Who will get the 15th and final roster spot? The position will likely be rewarded to a guard, but the Warriors can also elect to leave the space open. Leaving it vacant would allow them the option of signing a player later in the buyout market.
The remaining candidates for the position are Gary Payton II, Mychal Mulder, Avery Bradley, and Jordan Bell. Before training camp, other guards received consideration but didn't make it this far. Langston Galloway earned an invite to camp, but the Warriors waived him last week. Darren Collison and Isaiah Thomas both worked out for the team but weren't offered a deal.
When talking about the last men standing, the race looked somewhat lopsided. It could be because of the names involved. Avery Bradley is the most accomplished player out of the bunch, and some might give him the edge over the competition because of that. However, in reality, his preseason can be looked at as a disappointment, especially when it comes to shooting. He is averaging 4.3 points while shooting 38.9% from the field and 22.2% from deep.
Jordan Bell is the player most aren't taking seriously. And yet, the team can use more size on the roster. That might be the one thing on Bell's side. He's averaging 3 points and 2 rebounds per game. Bell has yet to miss a field goal, but has otherwise been unimpressive. It's possible he earns the final spot, though unlikely.
Then there is the son of NBA legend Gary Payton. He was absent most of training camp with a non-basketball injury. It cost Payton II valuable time away from competing for the last spot. He appeared in his first game of the preseason Tuesday. He went to work immediately. Payton II finished the game with 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting. He also added 1 steal and 1 block.
It's only one game, but he's been with the team for a few months now. The chemistry between him and the Warriors could be the reason he's ranked over Bradley. Especially since Bradley hasn't shown, he is an upgrade when it comes to shooting.
That leads us to the best shooter out of the bunch, Canadian Mychal Mulder. Last season he shot the three exceptionally well. He finished the year at 39.7% from deep. He's struggling with his shot so far, shooting just 35%. It could be from the pressure of potentially not making the team.
Even though he isn't playing his best, Mulder might be the safest bet for the team. He proved he could play the role they're looking for in a player who might not play every night. He's been extremely positive about his situation and the ultimate team player. It could be enough to land him a full-time position.
The Warriors will be making their final decision soon, and their eyes will shift toward the postseason. That's when the real work for the Dubs will begin.
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