Golden State Warriors Mailbag: Draymond Green, Grizzlies, Bench
April 20, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Leandro Barbosa (19) celebrates after making a basket while being fouled against the New Orleans Pelicans during the second quarter in game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Pelicans 97-87. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
@MaggiePilloton which bench player has impressed the most through the first two games and deserves more playing time going forward?
— Marc Grandi (@MarcGrandi) April 21, 2015
In the Warriors’ first playoff game, the majority of their production came from their starters, with the exception of eight points, four rebounds, and three assists from Iguodala. This type of production is to be expected from Iguodala though, so other than that, no one off the bench really impressed me in the first game.
In the Warriors’ second playoff game against the Pelicans though, the Brazilian Blur stepped up. Leandro Barbosa put up 12 points on 5-for-8 shooting in 15 minutes in Game Two, and he contributed significantly in the Warriors’ 97-87 win over the Pelicans.
In this game, Barbosa put up impressive stats in a short amount of time, but his energy level, the spark he provided, his shot selection, and his aggressiveness were even more impressive. Warriors fans could see why Barbosa was such a successful sixth man with the Phoenix Suns back in the day, as he put on a similar display of skills in Monday’s game.
He made an immediate impact in the game, and he truly sparked the Warriors’ reserve unit, as he wasn’t afraid to drive to the basket, attack the Pelicans at the rim, and force the Pelicans’ defense to make adjustments. Barbosa showed glimpses of the younger Barbosa that won Sixth Man of the Year in 2007. Barbosa might be older now, but he still has that impressive quickness and aggressiveness.
Barbosa’s minutes throughout the regular season were somewhat inconsistent and sporadic, but he will be a valuable part of the playoff rotation because of his instant offense and playoff experience. He’s a smart, veteran leader on this team, which makes him even more valuable in the playoffs.