Why Kerr calls Toscano-Anderson mini version of Draymond

Share

Even when Warriors centers James Wiseman and Kevon Looney return from their respective injuries, coach Steve Kerr expects to play plenty of small-ball lineups

Juan Toscano-Anderson is a big reason why. 

The 6-foot-6 wing has gone from one of the best stories in the NBA to an integral part of the Warriors' success. He can do a bit of everything, just like another, more high-profile Golden State player who has defied the odds. 

"I think having Juan Toscano-Anderson next to him, it's almost like a mini version of Draymond," Kerr said Wednesday to reporters. "I love that combination, especially when Steph is on the floor because both just know how to generate offense, how to get Steph open, how to get the ball moving."

Toscano-Anderson, who is on a two-way contract, has played 12 games this season and started six. He has started the last four games with the Warriors having to go small and has thrived with more opportunities. In Golden State's last four games, Toscano-Anderson has averaged 8.8 points, 9.3 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game while also shooting 42.9 percent from 3-point range. 

He also is averaging a 7.5 plus-minus in that span. 

RELATED: Ask Kerith: Would Warriors trade Draymond to get Steph help?

Golden State Warriors

Find the latest Golden State Warriors news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

Why McNutt believes Warriors' Butler has most to prove in second half

Why Steph is Bay Area athlete Chapman wishes he could embody

This isn't the first time Kerr has compared Toscano-Anderson to Green. In fact, he has expressed the similarities multiple times in the last month-plus.

"He's a little bit like Draymond [Green] in that his brain is on high alert at all times at both ends of the floor," Kerr said in late December 2020. "I'm a huge fan. He absolutely belongs in this league."

The Oakland native has proven he belongs in the NBA and should continue to have an important role with the team he grew up rooting for.

Download and subscribe to the Dubs Talk Podcast

Contact Us