The Golden State Warriors are coming off a tough November 5th loss to the Sacramento Kings. With very real title aspirations, the Warriors know that as their core players age, role players need to step up—especially in the event of injuries. Against the Kings, Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler all sat out, so a loss was to be expected.
In his first career start, second-round pick Will Richard delivered an impressive performance with an efficient 30 points, along with seven rebounds and five assists. Previously, Richard had mostly played in garbage time minutes, but his ability to maximize his first real opportunity caught the attention of head coach Steve Kerr.
### Rookie Role Player Stepping Up
Curry and Green have been the engine behind the Warriors’ success throughout their championship runs. However, they have long benefited from one of the best supporting casts in the NBA. Richard, picked 56th overall out of the University of Florida, understands how to find his role and contribute to team success. He played a significant role in the Florida Gators’ 2025 National Championship victory, and Kerr sees that winning experience translating well into the NBA.
“Who are those stabilizers in our run over the last decade?” Kerr shared during a recent radio appearance on 95.7 FM. “It’s Andre Iguodala, it’s Shaun Livingston, it’s David West. You need them at different positions because Steph and Draymond need stability around them to get them organized, help them navigate the game, and get Steph the ball.”
It’s important to note that Richard didn’t play alongside Curry during his standout outing. Kerr believes Richard’s versatile playstyle and efficient scoring bode well for a future partnership between the rookie and Curry, especially if injuries create more playing time opportunities for Richard.
### Warriors’ Depth Chart Shake-Up?
If Richard continues to force his way up the depth chart, it could mean changes for the Warriors’ current rotation. Buddy Hield has been disappointing so far this season, and Richard’s rebounding and two-way potential might be enough to secure him a more permanent role.
With little time to waste, Golden State is prepared to lean on whomever can contribute at a high level. “Will Richard checks all those boxes,” Kerr said. “The whole team, the whole organization, recognizes this, which means everybody’s on notice. Take care of the ball, because we’ve got people who will do that. And they’re ready to step in.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Richard to see if he can continue to rise and solidify his place in this Warriors squad determined to chase another championship.
https://heavy.com/sports/nba/golden-state-warriors/will-richard-steve-kerr-comparison-news/
