The Golden State Warriors entered this season with big expectations, but also a lot of question marks. They had depth issues last season and needed to bolster their second unit to assert themselves as a power in the Western Conference.
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With David Lee being hampered by hamstring injuries, Harrison Barnes replaced Andre Iguodala in the starting line-up, so the second unit could get a boost from Iguodala’s style of play.
Barnes has done well with the starters, but according to Jordan Ramirez, Barnes’ defense has caught the eye of head coach Steve Kerr
Kerr on HB: “I know the focus has been on his offense but his defense has been great.”
— Jordan Ramirez (@JRAM_91) November 16, 2014
Barnes has struggled since being drafted from North Carolina. Kerr’s arrival to Golden State has given Barnes an opportunity to prove his worth to his new head coach. He is averaging 11.6 points and 5.2 rebounds per game this season, but his defense has been more impressive.
It remains unclear whether Barnes will remain a starter when David Lee returns from injury, but these past nine games have given the young man confidence. The Warriors don’t need him to carry them on his back. He just needs to be solid day in and day out, but more importantly, continue excelling in the defensive end. That will always guarantee you extended playing time.