Golden State Warriors: 5 Players Who Will Improve In 2015-16

3. Festus Ezeli

December 22, 2014; Oakland, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors center Festus Ezeli (31) shoots the basketball against Sacramento Kings center

(15) during the fourth quarter at Oracle Arena. The Warriors defeated the Kings 128-108. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Festus Ezeli has had an interesting career so far. After having a mediocre rookie season in which he appeared in 78 games – with 41 starts — filling in for the injured Andrew Bogut, he stepped up his game last season and showed that one day he could be a starting NBA center.

Golden State Warriors

Ezeli has always been a raw talent. Having not played basketball in high school, it is expected that he may need a little more grooming than some other players. His highly anticipated second season had to be put on hold though, as he sat out the entire year thanks to reconstructive surgery he had on his knee.

He finally got back on the court this past year, but another injury kept him away from the game for a stretch during the season. Once he made his way back though, he was finally able to stay healthy and continued to learn the NBA game.

His services weren’t needed all that much as he played some valuable minutes here and there. It wasn’t until the NBA finals that he really showed how much potential he has. After Bogut sat down in favor of a smaller lineup, Ezeli saw decent minutes at the back up center spot. He appeared in all but one game during the finals.

This year many expect Ezeli to continue to build on the raw talent and athleticism he has, which is why he has the potential to be one of the most improved Warriors this season.

Next: Number 2: The Black Falcon