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The Golden State Warriors are entering the 2024-25 NBA season with a completely changed roster following Klay Thompson’s departure to the Dallas Mavericks. Running it back with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green along with newcomers Buddy Hield , Kyle Anderson, and De’Anthony Melton, the Warriors hope to overcome the odds and still challenge for the NBA championship. Whether the roster is good enough to compete for a title or not remains to be seen and we have divided the depth chart into six different tiers.
Tier 1: Superstars
Stephen Curry
Stephen Curry remains the heart and soul of the Warriors, continuing to be one of the most lethal scorers and playmakers in the league following an impressive Olympic debut in Paris. In the 2023-24 season, Curry averaged 26.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per game while shooting 40.8% from three-point range, proving he is still among the NBA’s elite. As a two-time MVP and four-time NBA champion, Curry's leadership, shooting range, and off-ball movement will be crucial for the Warriors' success in the post-Klay Thompson era. Hopefully, the rest of the Warriors players can manage to perform at a high level around their superstar because the point guard will need plenty of help in 2024-25.
Tier 2: All-Stars
None
Tier 3: Fringe All-Stars
Jonathan Kuminga
Jonathan Kuminga has shown significant growth as a young forward and is on the brink of becoming a breakout star for the Warriors. Last season, he averaged 16.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while improving his shooting efficiency (52.9%) and defensive awareness. With more responsibility expected this year, Kuminga's athleticism, defensive potential, and ability to score in transition and on the drive make him a key piece for Golden State's future. We will likely see Kuminga reach another level as a fringe All-Star player as he gets closer to become a franchise cornerstone.
Tier 4: Key Role Players
Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Andrew Wiggins, De’Anthony Melton, Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, Moses Moody, Kevon Looney
Draymond Green continues to be the Warriors' defensive anchor and emotional leader, known for his high basketball IQ and playmaking abilities. In 2023-24, he posted averages of 8.6 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game while playing his usual brand of intense defense. Green’s ability to orchestrate the offense and serve as a versatile defender will be indispensable, especially in guiding the younger players and the newcomers.
Brandin Podziemski is an exciting guard with versatile scoring ability and solid court vision. The Warriors have made Podziemski a nearly untouchable player because they hope he can reach a different tier, similar to Jonathan Kuminga. The Warriors will look to develop his playmaking skills and defensive consistency to make him a key rotation player after the guard posted 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game.
Andrew Wiggins is supposed to provide the Warriors with a reliable two-way presence on the wing but he needs to return to his best levels. Averaging 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 steals per game last season, Wiggins brings athleticism, defense, and secondary scoring. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on offense makes him a vital piece, especially with the team adjusting to roster changes.
De’Anthony Melton brings tenacious perimeter defense and underrated playmaking to the Warriors backcourt. In 2023-24, Melton averaged 11.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while shooting 37.4% from deep, showing his potential as a three-and-D guard. His ability to guard opposing guards and knock down open shots will be critical in high-leverage situations.
Buddy Hield is an elite three-point shooter who can provide instant offense for the Warriors. Last season, he averaged 12.1 points while shooting 38.6% from beyond the arc, demonstrating his proficiency as a floor spacer. Hield’s shooting will be valuable in the Warriors’ offensive system, especially playing alongside Stephen Curry, who commands significant defensive attention. The goal is for Hield to replace Klay Thompson next season.
Kyle Anderson, known as "Slo Mo," is a versatile forward with a unique skill set that includes playmaking, defense, and basketball IQ. In 2023-24, he averaged 6.4 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, showcasing his ability to contribute across multiple categories. Anderson’s experience, size, and ability to facilitate make him a valuable utility player in Steve Kerr’s system.
Moses Moody has shown glimpses of his potential as a three-and-D wing for the Warriors, averaging 8.1 points and 3.0 rebounds per game last season. His improvement in shooting and defensive instincts will be essential for his role as a reliable rotation player. With his length and ability to space the floor, Moody is expected to step up and provide valuable minutes.
Kevon Looney is the Warriors' unsung role player in the frontcourt, known for his rebounding, screen-setting, and hustle plays. Last season, he averaged 4.5 points and 5.7 rebounds per game while being a key defensive presence in the paint. Looney's ability to anchor the defense and provide second-chance opportunities will remain crucial to the Warriors' success because there isn’t another natural center on the depth chart.
Tier 5: Supplementary Pieces
Gary Payton II, Trayce Jackson-Davis
Gary Payton II is an elite perimeter defender who brings energy and athleticism to the Warriors’ rotation. Last season, he averaged 5.5 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game while being tasked with guarding the opposing team's best perimeter player. Payton’s defense and ability to finish around the rim make him an impactful role player.
Trayce Jackson-Davis is a promising young big man with strong fundamentals and a good feel for the game. Known for his rebounding and shot-blocking, he provides depth to the Warriors' frontcourt. Jackson-Davis is expected to develop under the tutelage of Draymond Green and Kevon Looney, providing valuable minutes as he matures.
Tier 6: Bench
Lindy Waters III, Gui Santos
Lindy Waters III is a sharpshooting forward who provides depth on the wing for the Warriors. While he hasn’t yet made a major impact in the league, his shooting ability could carve out a niche role off the bench if he continues to develop.
Gui Santos is a young international prospect looking to make his mark in the NBA. With a strong frame and versatile skill set, Santos has potential as a 3-and-D wing, though he is expected to spend most of this season developing his game.
Related: Golden State Warriors' Biggest Mistakes In 2024 Offseason
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