Steve Kerr addresses Usman Garuba's role and future with the Warriors / News - Basketnews.com

Usman Garuba joined the Golden State Warriors last September, but has checked in at only three games so far. Steve Kerr talked about the Spaniard's progress, ideal position on the court and future with the franchise.

Credit: AP Photo/Paul Beaty Credit AP Photo/Paul Beaty

Last Semptember,Usman Garubaagreed with theGolden State Warriorson a two-way deal.

Points this season

47%119,0Points made:119,0Accuracy:47,1%Place in standings:6Record max:144Record min:97Best scorer:Stephen CurryTeamNBAStatisticsSchedule

After leaving the Houston Rockets this summer, the Spanish center had been a free agent. Although Garuba has only played eight minutes in three games this season with the Warriors, Steve Kerr praised the player's ability to create when he has the ball.

"He's working a lot on his body, trying to improve and get in the best shape possible. I think he has a future with us," the Warriors head coach said before his team's game against the Raptors in Toronto last Friday.

Garuba, 21, was the 23rd pick in the 2021 draft by the Houston Rockets, but he didn't get a leading role in the Texan franchise. Last year he averaged 2.8 points and 3.9 rebounds with the Rockets, before leaving at the end of the season.

Garuba's contract will pay him $559,782 and will make him eligible to appear in up to 50 regular-season contests.

"I really like 'Usi'. He is a talented young player," Kerr continued. "He's big and strong. He has a big wingspan so even though he's not that tall, defensively he can match up with bigger, taller people," Kerr explained.

Kerr later added that Garuba needs time to find his role and his identity.

"I think that at the moment 'Usi' has to play as a '5' unless he has a big player and shooter at his side. He could play as a '4' if he has a five at his side. But he has to refine his game and find his niche, whether with our team or with another", Kerr concluded.

Like what we are doing? Support us by becoming BN+ member.