Golden State Warriors fourth-year player Moses Moody is off to a fantastic start in the preseason thus far, and his head coach has certainly taken notice. Following the Dubs’ preseason win against the Los Angeles Lakers earlier this week, Steve Kerr aimed significant praise Moody’s way. Is he on track to move up in Kerr’s rotation this year? The Warriors head coach spoke on the matter and how he envisions his improving shooting guard contributing this season.
Warriors Guard Moses Moody Impressing His Coach Early On
Steve Kerr Loving What Moody Is Showing Him
Ever since the Warriors drafted Moody in the 2021 NBA draft, Moody has proved to be a solid, coachable piece to Kerr’s roster. He can shoot and defend, and his potential has flashed glimpses each season. Yet, the Warriors fourth-year player has thus far failed to reach consistency regarding his solidified place on the team.
Luckily for Moody, and what should hopefully bode well for him, is the element of his game that has not failed—his work ethic and desire to keep improving. That improvement is on full display while Golden State continues its preseason schedule. Following a 111-97 victory over the Lakers this week, Kerr directed high compliments toward his fourth-year player.
“He’s playing great,” Kerr said. “He’s gotten so much better in so many ways. We’ve always loved his character, his work ethic. This is the most confidence he’s played with.”
In terms of where Moody will fit in the rotation this season, Kerr expects him to play a much larger role than in the past.
“He’s going to play a big role for us, but so are a lot of other guys. We’re sitting in that coaches’ room every day saying, ‘How do we play all these guys?’ Because they all deserve to play. I’ve asked all of them to play their hardest, make it difficult for us (coaches), and they’re all doing that.”
On Pace to Earn a Rookie Contract Extension
Over the last three preseason games, Moody has scored a combined 53 points. On top of that, Kerr has also noticed his improvements on the defensive end. His performance against the Clippers shows that he can contribute at a high level if given the opportunity, and he has earned that. Going into his fourth NBA season, this is the perfect time for Moody to fully ingratiate himself with the Warriors. Pressuring his head coach to play him more and consistently throughout the season isn’t such a bad idea either.
His future with Golden State may very well come down to this season. Moody has yet to receive a rookie contract extension going into his fourth year. The deadline for that extension is next week on October 21st. If that day comes and goes without that extension, this is Moody’s year to prove he belongs as a Warrior. His job is to continue working hard and contributing on the floor. Moody needs to give the organization every reason to include him in their future plans, and that should be his priority. Considering what he has shown thus far and Kerr’s glowing remarks, don’t be surprised if the fruits of Moody’s work earn him that extension.
