Jonathan Kuminga’s absence due to a DNP (Did Not Play) against the Chicago Bulls highlighted significant rotation concerns for the Golden State Warriors during their recent back-to-back matches. However, another critical issue unfolded with fellow 2021 lottery pick Moses Moody, who has now lost his starting position.
Moody has faced challenges with inconsistency in his performances, complicating the Warriors’ assessment of his true value to the team. As the trade deadline approaches, the question of his trade candidacy becomes more pressing. At his peak, Moody is recognized as a valuable asset, boasting a shooting percentage exceeding 40% from beyond the arc, alongside notable defensive capabilities owing to his size and length. This potential combined with his team-friendly three-year, $37.5 million contract suggests he would be an important player for Golden State to retain.
Despite his talent, Moody has struggled with erratic shooting this season, negatively impacting his role. In the five games leading up to the back-to-back, he averaged only 10.4 points while shooting 34.6% from the field and a mere 26.5% from three-point range. Consequently, he was removed from the starting lineup against the Cavaliers and Bulls, with Buddy Hield being favored even amidst his own slow start to the season. Some speculate that head coach Steve Kerr’s decision may have been influenced by the desire for more movement shooting in the absence of Stephen Curry.
During his time off the bench, Moody managed to be effective, contributing a total of 20 points and six rebounds across 19-20 minutes over the two games, shooting 5-of-11 overall and 4-of-8 from three. While these performances were far from earth-shattering, it’s conceivable that the anticipated returns of Curry and Draymond Green could lead to a reshuffling that might reinstate Moody in a more prominent role.
The current roster features seasoned stars such as Curry, Green, and Jimmy Butler, alongside various rotation players that necessitate tactical adjustments from game to game. Moody’s failure to assert himself clearly as one of the top options has raised questions about the Warriors’ overall performance this season. Furthermore, the front office now faces the challenge of determining whether Moody truly ranks among their best players or if his $11.6 million salary could be leveraged in combination with others, like Kuminga, to enhance the roster and bolster their championship aspirations before the trade deadline.
With the season still unfolding, the Warriors have the opportunity to recalibrate and potentially revitalize Moody’s role, aiming for a more cohesive unit as they strive for postseason success. This situation offers a glimmer of hope that adjustments may yet lead to a stronger performance from key players.