The Golden State Warriors had two lottery picks in last year's draft. The No. 7 pick Jonathan Kuminga and No. 14 pick Moses Moody. Both players are 19-years-old and need time to reach their full potential.
Since the Warriors are contenders, they had to find a creative way to simultaneously develop their future stars, and compete for an NBA championship.
So far, it looks like they've done it. According to Steve Kerr, the headman behind the team's success. He thinks his rookies are handling things well.
“I think they're right on schedule. I think they're both really working hard every single day. They're putting the work in, and learning what it's about to be an NBA player,” Kerr told ClutchPoints.
Steve Kerr on the development of Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody:
"I think they're right on schedule. I think they're both really working hard every single day. They're putting the work in, and learning what it's about to be an NBA player."
— Mark Haynes (@markhaynesnba) January 7, 2022
Thursday, the Warriors lost to the New Orleans Pelicans 101-96. Stephen Curry and Draymond Green were out resting. So, this meant it would be some extra opportunities for both rookies to showcase their skills. They both played hard, and Kerr was pleased with what he saw from both rookies.
In 20 minutes off the bench, Kuminga tallied 13 points and 6 rebounds. His draft-classmate Moody played 23 minutes and added 10 points and 5 rebounds.
Click here to listen to the Warriors' Multiverse podcast by ClutchPoints
In the fourth quarter, the rookies found themselves on the floor during crunch time. Usually, they won't be in the game at this time. But they competed and made some nice plays down the stretch. The moment wasn't too big for them. They just weren't able to capture the win.
It won't be the last time you see the rookies this season and it won't be the last time you see them playing in big moments. The two teenagers are improving by the day and can end up being a big part of competing for a championship.
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