Fresh off a thrilling win over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, the Golden State Warriors have made a small roster move that could make a huge impact on their championship aspirations.
The Warriors have recalled forward Gui Santos, 21, out of the G League affiliate, Santa Cruz Warriors. Acquired in the 2021 NBA Draft, Santos has been playing lights-out basketball in the G League. He has averaged 14.5 ppg, 6.6 rpg, 3.0 apg, and has impressed coaches and fans alike with his athleticism, shooting, and defensive versatility.
The recall isn’t just about rewarding Santos’ G League performance. It’s also a sign of the Warriors’ willingness to inject youthful energy into their ageing core.
With Curry, Thompson, and Green all entering their 30s, adding a young player like Santos can bring much-needed energy and depth.
Santos’ Skillset: A Perfect Fit for the Warriors System
Santos’ game fits the Warriors’ signature motion offence perfectly. He’s a talented shooter, capable of draining threes off of the catch or off the dribble. His deft handles and lightning-fast first step enable him to penetrate closeouts and drive to the rim, providing an additional scoring threat to the Warriors’ already potent offence.
On the defensive end, Santos’ versatility is at its best when he’s able to guard multiple positions. His lightning-fast legs, combined with his long wingspan, make him a thorn in the side for point guards. This defensive versatility fits well with the Warriors’ switch-heavy system, which allows them to adjust to different matchups while maintaining their defensive superiority.
Immediate Impact and Long-Term Potential
Santos’ immediate impact may be limited because of limited playing time. The Warriors’ rotation is well established, and it’ll take time for Santos to earn consistent playing time.
However, his recall shows the coaching staff’s faith in Santos’ skills, and he may see more playing time during back to back sets or if the veteran core suffers an injury.
Santos has undeniable long-term potential. He has raw talent and a high basketball IQ, which will allow him to grow into a key player for the Warriors in the future.
Playing alongside veterans like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson will speed up the learning curve for Santos, and his athletic and scoring skills could eventually lead to a starting role in the Warriors’ future.
Challenges and Expectations
The biggest challenge for Santos will be adapting to the physicality of the NBA and the faster pace of the game. He’ll have to adjust to defending bigger and more skilled players while keeping his offensive productivity up against more aggressive defence schemes.
It’s important to temper expectations for Santos. He’s still a young player, and he’s still learning the ins and outs of the game. But his recall is a reminder that the Warriors are committed to building for the long haul while staying competitive in the here and now. He won’t be a game-changer, but his infusion of youth and talent adds another chapter to the Warriors’ dynasty.
Conclusion: A Strategic Move with Championship Aspirations in Mind
The Warriors’ decision to let Gui Santos go is a sign that they’re serious about winning now and in the future. With a championship on the horizon, adding a young player like Santos gives the team more depth and room to grow. His impact on the team might not be huge right away, but it’s a sign that the Warriors are ready to keep growing and evolve to make sure their dynasty keeps going for a long time.
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