NBA: Golden State Warriors Steve Kerr Optimistic About Latest Addition

KEY POINTS

The Golden State Warriors are looking for pieces that they can keep when the Splash Brothers make their complete return next year
They recently signed Dragan Bender to a 10-day contract
Steve Kerr is positive about Bender's first performance

After five straight Finals appearances, the Golden State Warriors are now taking time off as the dominant team in the league. With Steph Curry and Klay Thompson recovering from their injuries, the Warriors are now building for the future before their star duo returns. They’ve focused on ending the season in a strong note while finding ways to improve their team moving forward. They acquired D’Angelo Russell in the offseason and eventually traded for former number 1 overall pick, the athletic forward Andrew Wiggins.

In their most recent moves, they also recently signed former number 4 overall draft pick Dragan Bender to a 10-day contract. Bender was included as an addition to the team for his size and ability to stretch the floor. He was hyped to be one of the big international talents in the 2016 NBA draft. The Croatian had the frame and shooting ability that drew a lot of comparisons to Kristaps Porzingis.

In his first game with the Warriors, Bender notched 6 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. While those aren’t superstar numbers, Bender was able to fill in the role expected from him – to be an additional shooting option. He shot 2 out of 5 from beyond the arc when he tallied his 20 minutes off the bench.

Head Coach Steve Kerr was optimistic about his performance, as he liked how fast the big man was able to pick things up. Per NBC Sports, Kerr opened up on how Bender performed in his Warrior debut. "I'm excited about him. He's a really talented player and he could be a good fit for us.”

In order for the front office to give Bender a chance beyond his 10-day contract, he would have to make the most out of the opportunity. "Just gotta compete and play the role we want him to play, which is pick-and-pop," Kerr said. "Defend his position and understand our schemes. The early look is really positive. He has a good feel for the game.”

Bender is off to a positive start and if his play continues then the Warriors might field him on the court when the Splash Brothers make their much-awaited return.