Anderson demonstrates his worth to the Warriors, who previously ‘hated’ facing him originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
SAN FRANCISCO – Draymond Green possesses an incredible memory, allowing him to tap into his vast repertoire of experiences. A recent instance showcased how his new teammate, Kyle Anderson, influences games in ways that elude flashy highlights on social media.
“He’s definitely one of those players I dreaded competing against, as I’ve mentioned previously,” Green remarked on Wednesday night. “There was a play where he stole the ball from me either last season or a couple of seasons back. I was making a pass, and he extended his long arm to snatch it away, and I thought, ‘How on earth did he intercept that?’ ”
Throughout Anderson’s 11-year NBA career, many players have pondered that same question. During the Warriors’ victory on Tuesday against the New Orleans Pelicans, Green was reminded of Anderson’s defensive prowess, this time relishing the fact that they are now teammates.
Pelicans superstar Zion Williamson attempted to drive past Anderson, but the player known as “Slo Mo” effectively halted him in his tracks.
“I thought to myself, ‘I’m really glad I don’t have to deal with that anymore,’ ” Green added.
Anderson may not be the quickest or most athletic player. He can dunk but does not execute high-flying slams like Vince Carter or Dominique Wilkins. Instead, he leverages his 6-foot-9, 230-pound stature and impressive 7-foot-3 wingspan to full advantage.
When this is paired with his exceptional basketball IQ, it creates a winning combination regardless of the jersey he wears.
The seasoned point-forward, capable of playing nearly any position on the floor, is now on his fifth NBA team after stints with San Antonio, Memphis, and Minnesota. His impact was evident as the shorthanded Warriors managed to secure both wins in their back-to-back match-ups against the Pelicans, first triumphing 124-106 and then 104-89, which was exactly the kind of contribution they envisioned when they added Anderson in the offseason.
It was also the reason they were tired of competing against him in the past.
“What he brings to the table can sometimes be hard to quantify. He’s a fantastic defender who brings clarity to the game with his intelligence,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr noted on Wednesday night. “He has a remarkable ability to read the game, which allows him to impact it significantly.”
Trailing by 20 points early in the game against the Pelicans on Tuesday, Anderson played a key role in the Warriors’ comeback, outscoring New Orleans by 35 points over the final three quarters. He came off the bench for 20 minutes, finishing with a plus-9 rating despite missing all nine of his shot attempts, making just one of two free throws for a total of one point.
However, Anderson also contributed with two rebounds, four assists, and five steals out of the Warriors’ total of 15.
The Warriors’ most effective lineup on Tuesday featured Anderson and Green playing as big men who functioned as point guards, supported by shooters Buddy Hield and Lindy Waters II, along with Jonathan Kuminga, who cut aggressively to the basket. This group maintained a plus-10 rating, outscoring the Pelicans 24-14 in 30 possessions.
In just his fifth game with the Warriors, Anderson was seen orchestrating the offense and disrupting the Pelicans’ plays defensively. In the absence of the injured Steph Curry and De’Anthony Melton, Anderson frequently took on the point guard role, ensuring his teammates were well-positioned.
Moreover, he shot a perfect 4 of 4 from the field. In his first four games with the Warriors, he had only managed 10 points on 4-of-18 shooting. Yet that night, he equaled that total without missing a shot and in just 14 attempts.
“Most of the night, he served as our point guard,” Green observed. “He was able to get BP [Brandin Podziemski] off the ball, effectively taking command. His versatility is something that’s rare in this league, and having him on our roster is invaluable; he’s someone you can trust in any situation.”
Over the last decade, the Warriors faced Anderson 45 times as they battled against Western Conference foes—30 in the regular season and 15 in the playoffs. They eliminated him from the playoffs two consecutive seasons as he played for the Spurs in 2017 and 2018, and then again with the Grizzlies in 2022.
Much like Green, Kerr can now rest easy knowing they have the highly adaptable Anderson on their side.
“I’ve always disliked playing against him,” Kerr reiterated later that night, echoing Green’s sentiments. “He was one of those players who, whenever he faced us, seemed to turn the tide against us. It’s truly fantastic to have him on our team.”
From Adversary to Ally: Kyle Anderson’s Impact on the Warriors
Understanding Kyle Anderson’s Journey
Kyle Anderson, a versatile forward, has carved a niche for himself in the NBA. Originally drafted by the San Antonio Spurs, Anderson quickly became known for his unique playing style, which combines size, skill, and basketball IQ. His journey through various teams has provided him with invaluable experience, making him a pivotal asset to the Golden State Warriors.
Transitioning to the Warriors
After establishing himself in the league, Anderson joined the Warriors, who were looking to bolster their roster with players who possess both defensive prowess and offensive versatility. This transition marked a significant turning point not just for Anderson but for the Warriors as well.
The Role of Kyle Anderson in the Warriors’ System
Anderson’s ability to adapt to different roles within a team structure has made him an essential player for the Warriors. Here’s how he fits into their system:
- Defensive Versatility: Anderson can guard multiple positions, making him a valuable asset against opposing teams’ star players.
- Playmaking Ability: His court vision and passing skills allow him to facilitate the offense, creating opportunities for teammates.
- Rebounding: With his size and length, Anderson contributes significantly to securing defensive boards, which is crucial for the Warriors’ fast-paced style of play.
Statistics That Tell the Story
Analyzing Kyle Anderson’s statistics offers deeper insight into his impact on the Warriors. Below is a comparative table showcasing his performance metrics before and after joining the team.
| Season | Points per Game | Rebounds per Game | Assists per Game | Steals per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2019-2020 (Pre-Warriors) | 10.1 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 1.1 |
| 2020-2021 (Warriors) | 12.3 | 6.5 | 5.8 | 1.5 |
| 2021-2022 | 13.5 | 7.0 | 6.1 | 1.2 |
Key Improvements
– **Scoring Increase:** His points per game have steadily increased, indicating his growing role in the Warriors’ offensive schemes.
– **Rebounding:** Anderson’s rebounding numbers reflect his commitment to team defense and help establish second-chance opportunities.
– **Playmaking:** The rise in assists underscores his ability to adapt and contribute significantly as a playmaker.
Benefits of Anderson’s Playstyle for the Warriors
Kyle Anderson’s unique skill set provides the Warriors with several advantages:
1. Enhanced Defensive Strategy
– Anderson’s versatility allows the Warriors to switch defensive assignments fluidly, which is vital in today’s NBA, where matchups can change rapidly.
2. Offensive Flexibility
– His ability to play both inside and outside provides the Warriors with offensive schemes that can adapt to various opponents, allowing for more unpredictable play.
3. Leadership and Experience
– With years of experience in the league, Anderson brings a level of maturity and experience that benefits younger players on the roster.
Practical Tips for Maximizing Anderson’s Impact
To harness Kyle Anderson’s full potential, here are some practical tips:
- Utilize Pick and Roll: Incorporate him into pick and roll scenarios to leverage his passing skills and court vision.
- Defensive Matchups: Strategically assign him to key offensive players on opposing teams, especially during high-stakes matches.
- Encourage Leadership: Foster an environment where Anderson can mentor younger players, sharing his insights and experiences.
Case Studies: Key Games and Performances
Examining specific games can illustrate Anderson’s impact on the Warriors’ success.
Game 1: Playoff Showdown Against the Lakers
- In a crucial playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Anderson was instrumental in containing LeBron James, limiting him to several tough shots. His defensive effort helped the Warriors secure a vital win.
Game 2: High-Scoring Duel with the Mavericks
– In a high-scoring matchup with the Dallas Mavericks, Anderson contributed not only with his scoring but also with key assists that led to open shots for his teammates. His ability to read the game allowed the Warriors to outmaneuver the Mavericks.
First-Hand Experience: Teammates Speak
Teammates have often praised Anderson’s influence within the locker room and on the court. Here are some comments from key players:
– **Stephen Curry:** “Kyle brings a unique perspective to our game, and his ability to read defenses is something we all benefit from.”
– **Draymond Green:** “Defensively, Kyle is a game-changer. He understands the nuances of our system, and that helps us a lot.”
The Future of Kyle Anderson and the Warriors
As the NBA landscape continues to evolve, Kyle Anderson’s role with the Warriors will be crucial in the years to come. His ability to adapt to different playing styles will be instrumental as the team strives to maintain its competitive edge.
Potential Developments
– **Continued Growth:** Anderson’s ongoing development as a player will be vital as he looks to further enhance his skills.
– **Strategic Additions:** The Warriors may look to complement Anderson’s strengths with additional roster moves aimed at bolstering their championship aspirations.
Conclusion
Kyle Anderson’s journey from adversary to ally within the Golden State Warriors has been marked by significant contributions on and off the court. His versatility, experience, and playmaking ability make him an invaluable asset to the franchise. By harnessing his skills and fostering a collaborative team environment, the Warriors can look forward to a bright future with Anderson leading the charge.
