Warriors’ future hangs on Moody’s choice as the Golden State Warriors go into an important 2024-25 NBA season. Coming off of a 46-win season a year ago that nonetheless featured a team missing the playoffs in a crowded Western Conference, the team finds itself at a number of pivotal junctures. With Klay Thompson gone via free agency and Stephen Curry still proving his elite status during the Olympics, the franchise has to consider its future-especially when it comes to its young talent.
Perhaps the biggest decision comes with Moses Moody, the selection with the 14th overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft. Moody has had a tough time working his way into the rotation through his first three seasons but has flashed at times. Heading into the last season of his rookie deal, the Warriors need to decide whether an investment in his development is forthcoming or if other options should be explored through a trade. Whatever happens, the results will long last for the team.
The Warriors Need to Play Moody More or Trade Him
He makes $5.8 million this season, but his value is expected to balloon on his second deal. The 22-year-old projects to command an extension in the mid-level exception range that could more than double his salary. If Golden State elects not to extend him, Moody will hit restricted free agency next summer. Another team will likely give him a decent enough contract to force the Warriors’ hand in deciding whether to match or risk damaging their relationship with the promising wing.
For someone as talented as Moody, Warriors’ Future Hangs on Moody’s Choice . He has never averaged more than 17.5 minutes per contest through a whole season of basketball. The Warriors are deep on the wing, but it does become a hard call to continue paying a player upwards of $12 million a year with very limited time on the court. This becomes the challenge for head coach Steve Kerr in seeking ways to get Moody onto the court.
The 6’6″ wing has flashed defensive versatility and is a career 36.2% shooter from beyond the arc. Golden State needs to find out if Moody can be a long-term piece of their core or if it’s time to move on. If the Warriors can’t offer him more than 15 to 20 minutes per game, then it may be time to trade him and allow him to thrive elsewhere.
A Future Beyond Curry
The Warriors drafted Moody with visions of him being a core piece in their post-Stephen Curry era. He can still be that guy if given more runway, with a franchise that wants to invest time in him. Role players more often than not prove crucial in championship runs, and Moody has the makings of a valued 3-and-D player. But sitting in the bench in crowded rotation, he won’t be able to reach his full potential.
The roster has looked different, and looming questions about young talents raise the bar for them to get it right. General manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the front office must make those careful decisions to avoid an elongated rebuild once Curry hangs his jersey up. The future is now for Golden State, and Moses Moody’s next steps play a pivotal role in shaping that.
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