Will Davis Bertans Find a Home with the Golden State Warriors?
As the NBA season draws closer, the Golden State Warriors are exploring potential additions to their roster. One intriguing prospect currently in the mix is Davis Bertans, a stretch big known for his three-point shooting prowess. With training camp just around the corner, the Warriors have decided to bring Bertans in for a workout, evaluating whether he could earn a spot on their roster. Here’s a detailed look at Bertans’ potential fit with the Warriors and whether he could make a significant impact this season.
Current Warriors Roster and Needs
The Warriors, historically renowned for their shooting ability, have undergone some changes this offseason. While the team remains strong with stars like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, there are concerns about the depth of their shooting, particularly on the bench. With the departure of some key players and the addition of new faces, Golden State is looking to fill gaps, especially in terms of three-point shooting.
Davis Bertans, a 6’10” forward known for his shooting, could be a valuable asset in addressing this need. His ability to stretch the floor with his shooting could be just what the Warriors are looking for. However, it’s crucial to examine Bertans’ fit with the team beyond just his shooting statistics.
Bertans’ Career and Skill Set
Drafted as the 42nd overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers, Bertans has had a somewhat nomadic career in the NBA. After being stashed overseas for several years, he made his NBA debut in 2016 with the San Antonio Spurs. Since then, he has played for several teams, including the Washington Wizards, Dallas Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, and most recently, the Charlotte Hornets. Despite this, Bertans has never managed to stay with a single team for an extended period.
What sets Bertans apart is his elite three-point shooting. Over the past few seasons, he has consistently maintained a shooting percentage around 38% or higher from beyond the arc. His shooting statistics, particularly from above the break, are impressive. Bertans has shot 39.2% from this area, which is crucial for a player whose primary role is to provide floor spacing and shooting.
Warriors’ Roster Fit
Looking at the Warriors’ roster, it’s evident that they could benefit from an additional shooter. While Draymond Green has improved his three-point shooting, his volume remains relatively low. The team’s bench lacks a true stretch big who can consistently hit outside shots, making Bertans a potentially valuable addition.
The Warriors’ system relies heavily on spacing and ball movement, which aligns well with Bertans’ strengths. He’s known for his catch-and-shoot ability and pick-and-pop plays, which could fit seamlessly into Golden State’s offensive schemes. Additionally, his height and shooting ability could create mismatches and open up opportunities for his teammates.
Considerations and Potential Challenges
Despite his shooting talent, Bertans comes with some drawbacks. His defense has been a concern throughout his career, and he is not known for his rebounding or interior play. In a team like the Warriors, which values versatility and defense, these limitations could be a hindrance. Additionally, Bertans’ past performance indicates that he might not always be consistent, which could be a risk for a team looking for reliable bench production.
Furthermore, while Bertans’ shooting is a significant asset, it’s essential to consider whether his defensive and overall game limitations might offset his offensive contributions. The Warriors will need to assess whether his shooting ability can outweigh these potential drawbacks and whether he fits into their overall team strategy.
Training Camp and Roster Spots
As of now, Bertans has been invited to a workout with the Warriors, but there’s no guarantee of a training camp invite or a spot on the roster. The team currently has 12 guaranteed contracts for the 2024-25 season, which means there are limited spots available. Bertans will need to impress during his workout and potentially in the preseason to secure a place on the roster.
The competition for the final roster spots will be intense, with several free agents and younger players vying for a chance. Bertans’ performance during the training camp will be critical in determining whether he earns a spot on the team.
Fan and Expert Opinions
The reaction from fans and analysts has been mixed. Some see Bertans as a valuable addition who could provide much-needed shooting and floor spacing, while others are concerned about his defensive limitations and overall consistency. The decision will ultimately depend on how well he performs during the tryout and how the Warriors’ coaching staff views his potential fit with the team’s needs and strategy.
Conclusion
In summary, Davis Bertans presents an intriguing opportunity for the Golden State Warriors. His exceptional shooting ability could address a current need on the roster, providing a significant boost to the team’s three-point shooting. However, his defensive shortcomings and past inconsistencies raise questions about his overall fit with the team.
As the Warriors prepare for the upcoming season, the decision to sign Bertans will come down to whether his shooting can outweigh his defensive limitations and whether he can integrate well into Golden State’s system. With training camp approaching, Bertans has a chance to prove his worth and potentially secure a spot on a team that could benefit greatly from his shooting prowess.
Whether or not the Warriors decide to sign him, the evaluation of Davis Bertans will be a critical storyline as the team prepares for another exciting NBA season.
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