When Dennis Schroder found out he was being traded from the Brooklyn Nets to the Golden State Warriors, it didn't take long for him to overcome the initial shock. Sure, he and his family had just settled into a new home, but the thought of teaming up with Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and playing under the guidance of Steve Kerr quickly brought excitement to the forefront.
“Just to be able to be around them now, especially Steph,” Schroder shared after a scrimmage with his new teammates. “He's one of, if not the best point guard ever. Best shooter, of course. I’m just excited to see how he works and to be a part of it.”
A Dream Team Scenario
For Schroder, joining a team with such star power feels like the culmination of a journey. “I’ve played with a lot of future Hall of Famers over the years. Him and Draymond will kind of complete that list,” he added. Now, with Curry’s unparalleled shooting and Green’s tenacious defense, Schroder sees this as a golden opportunity to grow and contribute to a championship-caliber squad.
On the Warriors’ side, the excitement is mutual. Despite a strong 12-3 start to the season, the team has struggled lately, dropping eight of their last ten games. Adding Schroder’s skill set to the mix couldn’t come at a better time.
A Key Role in the Lineup
Head coach Steve Kerr has big plans for the 12-year veteran. Schroder might even crack the starting lineup as soon as Thursday, when the Warriors face Memphis. “We need to take some of the burden off Steph,” Kerr explained. “He’s had to take on an abnormal load this year offensively. What we've missed is another pick-and-roll player so that Steph doesn't have to run so much pick-and-roll all game and wear himself down.”
Kerr’s strategy involves utilizing Schroder’s talents to create easier scoring opportunities for Curry. Additionally, Schroder will likely lead the second unit during non-Steph minutes, giving the team much-needed depth and organization during critical stretches.
Impressive Stats and Versatility
Schroder brings an impressive stat line to the table, averaging 18.4 points, 6.6 assists, and shooting 38.7% from beyond the arc. The Warriors are looking to him as an additional scoring threat to complement Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and Jonathan Kuminga. Beyond offense, Schroder’s defensive capabilities make him an invaluable addition, especially in light of De’Anthony Melton’s season-ending knee injury. Melton’s departure, along with Reece Beekman and three second-round picks, was part of the deal to acquire Schroder.
“Really, really excited to play with Draymond,” Schroder said with enthusiasm. “We’ve got a pretty good relationship. I’m looking forward to playing with another Hall of Famer on the court who was always hell when you were on the other side of it. To combine [our defense and competitiveness] now is pretty unique and special.”
Chemistry in the Making
During a recent scrimmage, Kerr placed Schroder on the opposing team to acclimate him to the Warriors’ style and the second unit. However, Schroder can’t wait to officially share the court with Curry. “Every time I’ve seen Golden State play, you get excited because of how he plays,” Schroder noted. “He plays it like a video game. He’s one of the superstars I have a lot of respect for because he doesn’t care if he scores 10, 20, 30, or 40. He just plays to win.”
Schroder’s admiration for Curry extends beyond his on-court prowess. He’s eager to learn from the two-time MVP and integrate into a team culture built on unselfish play and relentless effort. “I’m really excited. I can’t say it enough,” he reiterated.
Filling Critical Gaps
For the Warriors, Schroder’s arrival couldn’t come at a more critical juncture. Kerr likened Schroder’s potential role to what Chris Paul provided last season, particularly in pick-and-roll situations. With Melton out, the Warriors need a two-way guard who can deliver on both ends of the floor.
“We’re excited to have him,” Kerr said. “He’s got the experience, the skill set, and the mentality we need right now.”
Looking Ahead
As Schroder settles into his new role, the Warriors are hopeful that his presence will bring the spark they’ve been missing. His combination of scoring, playmaking, and defensive grit could be the key to stabilizing the team during a challenging stretch. For Schroder, the opportunity to play alongside legends like Curry and Green represents more than just a career milestone—it’s a chance to leave a lasting mark on one of the NBA’s most iconic franchises.
Golden State fans have every reason to be excited. With Schroder in the lineup, the Warriors are poised to turn their season around and reestablish themselves as a dominant force in the league. The synergy between these players—and the passion they bring to the game—is bound to make for an electrifying second half of the season. Buckle up; this journey is just getting started.
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