Melton, who signed a one-year deal for the mid-level exception with the Warriors this summer season, had missed Golden State’s final two video games with a sprained left ACL. After additional analysis, the staff and Melton decided the harm would require season-ending surgical procedure.
The 26-year-old guard appeared to have discovered a house with the Warriors, offering three-point taking pictures and powerful protection alongside Steph Curry within the backcourt. He was averaging 10.3 factors and taking pictures 37.1 % from three-point vary whereas delivering 1.2 steals and 2.3 deflections per sport, a key a part of Golden State’s disruptive protection.
It is a robust blow for Melton, who hoped to observe within the footsteps of gamers like Otto Porter, Jr. and Donte DiVincenzo by signing a one-year cope with the Warriors, showcasing his abilities and getting a multiyear contract afterward. Now Melton, who was a helpful supporting participant for the Memphis Grizzlies and Philadelphia 76ers, will go into free company an unknown commodity.
It is also a blow for the Warriors, who had a really perfect mix of taking pictures and protection with Melton. His almost certainly alternative within the beginning lineup down the street is 22-year-old Moses Moody, who’s averaging 9.2 factors and taking pictures 45.1 % on threes. Different prospects are sharpshooters Lindy Waters III and Buddy Hield and ahead Jonathan Kuminga.
They’re going to miss Melton’s abilities and likewise his coronary heart. Final Tuesday, Melton made an enormous play to drive a steal, accumulate a unfastened ball and nail a three-pointer to spark the Warriors’ comeback in a 120-117 win.
Wednesday, Waters shall be changing Melton within the beginning lineup in opposition to the Atlanta Hawks. However the Warriors know that there isn’t any technique to substitute Melton’s mixture of abilities long-term. Their possibilities to compete for a title simply acquired a complete lot slimmer.
