The Golden State Warriors have re-tooled their roster following the departure of Klay Thompson at the start of free agency. Buddy Hield, De’Anthony Melton and Kyle Anderson have all joined the franchise, along with rookie Quinten Post. As such, Steve Kerr’s roster and rotations will look considerably different in the upcoming season.
During a recent article for Bleacher Report, Dan Favale cited Melton as being Golden State’s best new weapon. Melton is a two-way guard who thrives as a primary point-of-attack defender. He’s also a reliable scorer, averaging 41% from the field and 36.9% from the perimeter throughout his career thus far.
“Despite standing only 6’3″, the 26-year-old can defend both guard positions and a bunch of different wings,” Favale wrote. “He saw extensive reps against guys like Cade Cunningham, Anthony Edwards and Jayson Tatum last season alone. Melton’s screen navigation is relentless, and he’s opportunistic in passing lanes and with help. Never mind loose handles and high dribbles. Even those with enviable ball control aren’t safe from turnovers with him around.”
Melton struggled with injury last season. However, if he can remain healthy and eat significant minutes within the rotation, he could become a core part of the Warriors’ defensive system moving forward.
The Warriors finished as the 15th-ranked defense last season. Melton’s presence within the rotation should help them climb toward (or into) the top 10, which would be a welcomed improvement for a roster that lost multiple games from winning positions during the 2023-24 campaign.
