Although the Golden State Warriors are coming off with a veteran depth lineup, one of the newcomers is unexpectedly showing up with confidence in place of Steve Kerr’s system.
Will Richard, selected initially as the 56th pick in the second round by the Memphis Grizzlies, but signed by the Warriors in exchange for Jamai Mashack, 59th overall and Justinian Jessup, with 51st in the draft.
The 6-foot-3 two-way guard dropped back-to-back 13 points in their last two preseason games with high minutes down the floor, where Kerr also sees much potential in the young guard.
During the Warriors’ practice, the head tactician was heard in a brief conversation with Jimmy Butler, commending Richard on how he played within the system.
That kid is pretty good, Will… It’s exciting,” Kerr told Butler.
“The other night, he always cuts. He knows how to play. He totally knows how to play. Will going to be good,” Butler said in response to Kerr during the Warriors’ practice.
Richard, fresh from the Florida Gators, contributed 18 points and eight boards to help the team win in the NCAA 2025 championship game.
The underrated rookie will look forward to earning minutes in their opening game when they face the Los Angeles Lakers tonight.
