Golden State Warriors Lose Leader, Gain Future

Despite being a star player, he may have to begin his Warriors debut on the bench.  His three-point shooting and drives are valuable, but his inadequate defense and inconsistency will be damaging.  With Monta Ellis, Stephen Jackson, and Al Harrington on the floor to start, Maggette can become a very successful sixth man for the team.  He will bring energy and instant offense to the team when asked upon. Maggette should be playing SG, SF, and PF.

Anthony Randolph: This rookie has shown promise in the Summer League.  He is quick and can run the floor.  He is a good defender and can occasionally cause problems for the other team in the paint.  He should be looking at playing at the PF for the most of the time, but may slip down to SF or even up to C.

Brandan Wright: Second year star from North Carolina showed potential in limited minutes last year, but he will be called upon this year.  His strength, speed and versatility are very valuable.  Good defender as well.  May very well be the backup to Al Harrington when running small.  He should be playing SF, PF, and C.

Ronny Turiaf: He is loud, he is energetic, but brings the intangibles to the team.  He will do the dirty work every time he's out there.  Should be looking at PF and C.

Andris Biedrins: He is pretty much the Warriors' only reliable center.  Great rebounder and shot-blocker, and can work the pick and roll very efficiently.  Starting C.

Kosta Perovic: Saw very limited time last year, but may be called upon this year because of his size.  He may develop into a good backup for Biedrins when running big.

As you see, the Warriors are very versatile, especially around SG, SF, and PF.  Don Nelson will be using these as key matchups that may determine the outcome of the game.

Also, Warriors may be playing smaller lineups more next season, because of the lack of strength in the frontcourt.  With Biedrins holding up the middle, someone needs to take his place.

Predicted Starting Five: Marcus Williams / Monta Ellis / Stephen Jackson / Al Harrington / Andris Biedrins

Predicted Small Lineup: Marcus Williams / Monta Ellis / Corey Maggette / Stephen Jackson / Al Harrington

Predicted Fast Lineup: Monta Ellis / Corey Maggette / Anthony Randolph / Stephen Jackson / Brandan Wright

The Warriors may not reach the playoffs this year, but the upcoming season will boost experience for the younger players, and will be the key to the future for the Warriors basketball club.

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