The Golden State Warriors are quietly picking up overlooked young players. As most know, the latest one to be added is Dragan Bender, who agreed to a 10-day contract. This early, the 7-footer has been making a good impression, and such could lead to a rewarding contract.
Bender made his debut for the Warriors and hardly showed rust. Head coach Steve Kerr took notice and appeared to be ready to bump up the Croatian's chances of being part of the Dubs future plans, KNBR reported.
"He’s got a lot of skill. We saw him knock down a couple of shots, make some passes. He’s got good size. Not a bad night for a guy who literally hasn’t had a practice with us — flew in last night. It’ll be good for him to get a couple of practices with us under his belt and get more comfortable as the week goes on," Kerr said.
Bender played 20 minutes against the New Orleans Pelicans and ended up with 6 points, five rebounds, and three assists across his name. He even got a block of rookie Zion Williamson at one point in the game. Considering his last game was way back in Jan. 24, it was a bit surprising to see the 4th overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft playing smoothly, USA Today reported.
Bender will have three days left in his current deal. There is a chance he could at least get another 10-day deal if not a longer one if he continues to hold up. He holds career averages of 5.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists, but the glaring thing about him is his age (22). Will the Dubs give him a chance to be part of the Warriors' future?
If the Dubs end up doing that, he would be the second former top pick to be given a new lease on life. Most know how Marquese Chriss resurrected his career with the Dubs. It was a long road to redemption, but the 8th overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft has gotten the vote of confidence of the Dubs. From the way Kerr was talking, it appears Bender will follow that route.
Notable as well is that the Warriors are trying to fill up key positions by next season. The center slot is one of them, and Bender seems fit if he maintains and continues to improve his showing. The Dubs may be out of the 2019-20 NBA playoff scene, but things could be different next season when Golden State has all hands on deck.
