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Will Richard speaks out after playing alongside Stephen Curry for the first time, it shows his mentality
Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images

The Golden State Warriors have experienced multiple injuries throughout their preseason campaign.

Both Moses Moody and Jimmy Butler have been suffering from injuries. They were both absent from the last Warriors game against the Portland Trail Blazers.

Draymond Green also missed the last game, which the Warriors won 118-111, due to having a rest.

These absences created opportunity for Warriors rookie Will Richard, whom Steve Kerr selected to join the starting lineup.

Photo by Scott Strazzante/San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

Will Richard reveals game-day notification about his first time playing alongside Stephen Curry

Richard capitalized on the chance, scoring 13 points while shooting 60% from three-point range across 30 minutes in the 118-111 victory.

Following the game, Richard disclosed that it was his first time playing alongside Stephen Curry and the Warriors’ first unit in any capacity.

“This is the first time. I got a word in a shoot around today [game day], so I was definitely excited, ready to go out there and compete,” Richard explained.

“At the end of the day it’s just basketball, but it’s definitely a little bit different going out there and playing with Steph and those guys, because they know how to play.”

“They played the game for a long time and it’s just a lot more simple when you’re out there with them,” he added.

Will Richard’s maturity impresses Steve Kerr despite limited preparation time

Richard’s comments reveal impressive mental maturity for a rookie.

He performed effectively despite never playing with the core rotation before, even in scrimmage settings.

After the game, Kerr expressed confidence in Richard following the performance, indicating plans to provide regular season opportunities.

The Warriors have experienced consistent success developing second-round picks over recent seasons.

Trayce Jackson-Davis and Quinten Post became important rotational players after being selected in the second round.

If Richard continues developing while maintaining his mature approach, he could become the next Warriors second-round success story, providing valuable depth behind the team’s established veterans.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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