NBA: Potential Kevin Durant, Andre Iguodala Replacements Might Not Meet Warriors' Expectations

The potential replacements for Kevin Durant and Andre Iguodala are not showing signs of being able to serve their main purpose.

Days before the Los Angeles Lakers handed them a devastating 123-101 loss in their recent preseason game, the Golden State Warriors were optimistic about having some guys who can somehow fill Durant and Iguodala ’ s shoes. However, the said players weren ’ t quite able to deliver in their first test this season.

In an interview after a team practice, Steve Kerr admitted that the departure of Durant and Iguodala will be a tough test for the Warriors next season. He even acknowledged the fact that the team needs some players who can step up.

“It’s hard to just buy a few minutes here and there. You really need guys to step forward and secure a starting spot,” Kerr told San Francisco Chronicle after Wednesday ’ s practice.

Ahead of the exhibition opener against the Lakers, Kerr was planning to mix and match the rotation in the hope to figure out how guys like Alfonso McKinnie and Glenn Robinson III could at least some of the roles Durant and Iguodala left.

McKinnie was confident about his progress with the Warriors and even stated that all his hardwork is already paying off.

“I know where I fit in. That’s progress, and it shows me that my character and how hard I’ve worked and how I’ve transformed and progressed each year are paying dividends.” said McKinnie

However, McKinnie just scored 7 points and grabbed 6 rebounds after playing for 21 minutes against the Lakers. Looking at his efficiency, it seems like McKinnie is still way too far from being considered as Durant ’ s replacement.

Robinson on the other hand, signed with the Warriors in July and went to work on learning a system that appears to fit his game. In fact, Robinson has spoken to Iguodala about his role this offseason and watched hours of video of the 2015 NBA Finals MVP. However, Robinson also had a terrible game scoring only 4 points after playing for 17 minutes.

Stephen Curry also had the same expectations from what was left with the Warriors. According to the league ’ s best shooter, Everbody will have their opportunity to contribute next season.

“Every guy in that locker room is going to have an opportunity to help us succeed,” Curry said

Klay Thompson is expected to return from ACL surgery and log the majority of the minutes at the position. But until then, the Warriors would have to make the most of what they have in their roster right now.