Following a playoff miss, the Warriors focus on leveraging their second-round pick, emphasizing character and basketball IQ in draft selections, as detailed by VP Kirk Lacob.
On May 14, 2024, following a disappointing season that saw the Warriors miss the playoffs, the focus has shifted to strengthening the team during the offseason. With the NBA draft lottery scheduled today, the Warriors face a unique challenge. Due to a 2019 trade, their first-round pick now belongs to the Trail Blazers, leaving them to make strategic choices with a second-round pick. In an exclusive interview, Warriors Vice President Kirk Lacob shed light on the team's draft strategy.
Lacob emphasized the importance of character in potential recruits, explaining how the team assesses candidates beyond their on-court skills. "We look closely at how players treat everyone in the organization, not just those in the limelight. It’s crucial to understand their interaction with behind-the-scenes staff during what they don't realize are essentially informal interviews," he said. This approach reflects the team's holistic view of a player's fit within their culture.
Basketball IQ is another critical factor for the Warriors. Lacob detailed the attributes they look for: "We evaluate how players read the game, the nuances they notice, and their coachability. Understanding what is ingrained in their basketball DNA is essential." He cited last year's first-round pick, guard Brandin Podziemski, as an example, chosen for his strong work ethic and game intelligence.
When queried about whether the Warriors prioritize fit over raw talent in the draft, Lacob highlighted the balance they strive to achieve. "It’s not always black and white. Talent is significant, but so is how a player fits into our team style and timeline. The adaptability and readiness of a player to seize opportunities are also key considerations," he explained.
Last year, the Warriors made headlines by trading with the Wizards for the 57th overall pick in the second round, selecting Trayce Jackson-Davis, who has been a significant revelation this season. The team aims to continue identifying and nurturing hidden talents in the draft.
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2024/05/14, picture citation source Associated Press