Steve Kerr issues open challenge for Donte DiVincenzo replacement
Donte DiVincenzo was an important part of the Golden State Warriors rotation last season. However, the all-action guard headed to the Eastern Conference earlier this summer, joining the New York Knicks. As such, the Warriors will be looking for one of their younger guards to step up and take DiVincenzo’s place.
When speaking to the media in a recent press conference, Steve Kerr discussed the loss of DiVincenzo before noting that the rotation spot is up for grabs. Kerr mentioned rookie Brandin Podziemski and third-year guard Moses Moody as potential candidates for the open spot.
“We’re gonna miss Donte,” Kerr said. “But, that’s an open spot for somebody to step into. Maybe it’s Brandin. Maybe it’s Moses. Maybe it’s someone else, I don’t know. But, we do have to replace what Donte gave us.”
Podziemski may struggle to fulfill DiVincenzo’s role in the opening stages of the season. Rookies often take time to acclimate to the NBA and begin producing at a high level. Moody, however, is likely ready to step into a bigger role for his team and could instantly bring an energy boost off the bench.
The Warriors may boast an aging, veteran roster, but they do have some high-level young talent waiting for their chance to stake a claim for a spot in the rotation. DiVincenzo’s exit will provide that chance.
Podziemski and Moody will now find themselves in a roster battle, with the winner earning some important playing time to begin the new season. Of course, the battle will rage all season, and the initial winner will still need to keep proving they deserve their spot.
