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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

Stephen Curry is not the only one behind the Golden State Warriors‘ success as a dynasty. Rather, it is a result of a collective effort from the front office and the men closer to the action. The Warriors, through their intricate threads, have risen to become the most dominant franchise of the past decade. One of its components is its programs for the development of young players. It has nurtured not only stars like Steph, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green but also established the groundwork for tapping the potentials of Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga, Andrew Wiggins, and others.

Despite the deep roots, the Warriors are currently facing scrutiny regarding various aspects; be it superstars, coaching staff, or the overall franchise approach. Many question marks surround the foundation that has been instrumental in their past success. In the same light, Stephen A. Smith also questioned the Warriors franchise as a whole.

Stephen A. Smith bashed the Warriors’ player development program

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The 2023 campaign has prompted a critical examination of whether the Warriors are living up to its potential, leaving no stone unturned in holding both superstars and the organizational strategy accountable. Stephen A. Smith boldly pointed a finger at their player development. Initially mentioning Jonathan Kuminga, Smith questioned the rise of Moses Moody.

Even though Smith bought up Brandin Podziemski (initially butchering up his last name by mispronouncing it), he didn’t probe extensively, given that he is just a rookie. However, Smith was stern in bashing the Warriors’ player development approach, given that Moody and Kuminga have been on the squad for enough time.

Smith poses an interesting narrative that forces the Warriors to look beyond their stars and capitalize on the potential of their younger roster options.

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Steve Kerr is already on the path to embrace the young players

The Warriors boast a plethora of options to pave the way for the next generation. Their talent and relative inexperience position them as crucial assets alongside Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson in the 2023 segment.

Starting with Kuminga, a third-year forward who is already first in line of gaining Kerr’s trust. Gradually, he has defined his role as part of the youthful infusion in the starting lineup. Moses Moody, another third-year guard, comes as one of the best shooters in his draft class. Due to his two-way talent, the Warriors utilized its own lottery pick to select Moody. So far, he has evolved into a key contributor off the bench, averaging a career-best 8.4 points per game this season.

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Rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis, son of former Warrior Dale Davis was chosen 57th overall by the team. He is widely regarded as the best second-round value pick by multiple coaches across the NBA world. Podziemski, on the other hand, has already gained Kerr’s trust. He posted a breakout performance on Nov. 14 and secured a starting spot with Steph, Klay, Kevon Looney, and Kuminga a month later.