The Golden State Warriors have reestablished themselves as a serious Western Conference threat this season. Despite a narrow loss to the Cavaliers, BD Cricket Live reports that they’ve gone 4–1 on a grueling five-game road trip and now sit at 8–2, tied with the Suns for the best record in the West. Much of this early success stems from the team’s impressive depth and the contributions from their bench unit.

Roster depth has become one of the Warriors’ defining strengths. As Draymond Green noted, any title-contending team must rely on more than just its stars. So far, nine Warriors players are averaging over eight points per game, giving head coach Steve Kerr plenty of flexibility with his rotations. Among the surprises has been new addition Buddy Hield, whose scoring outbursts off the bench have led some fans to dub him Stephen Curry’s new Splash Brother. Still, Kerr has kept Hield in a reserve role, likening his usage to Jordan Poole’s former sixth-man position—offering offensive firepower while maintaining tactical structure.

However, as the season has progressed, opposing defenses have started to key in on Hield. His shooting has cooled over the last two games, exposing his defensive vulnerabilities. In response, Kerr has turned to a more balanced option alongside Curry in the backcourt: De’Anthony Melton. The former Sixers guard brings a crucial two-way presence to the Warriors’ starting five.

In a recent win over the Thunder, Melton started next to Curry and delivered a standout performance—scoring 19 points on 5-of-11 shooting (5-of-8 from three), while also grabbing 10 rebounds, dishing out 2 assists, and recording 3 steals. Curry, meanwhile, posted 36 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists. Melton’s ability to space the floor helps Curry operate more freely off the ball, while his defensive prowess alleviates pressure on the Warriors’ perimeter defense.

Speaking with BD Cricket Live, Kerr praised Melton’s balanced game—his passing, shooting, and elite defense have created the kind of synergy Kerr has long sought in the starting unit. Statistically, Melton is averaging 9.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.2 steals in just 19 minutes per game, while shooting 38% from beyond the arc—numbers that speak to his efficiency.

Some fans have questioned why Melton’s minutes remain limited. Part of the answer lies in Golden State’s crowded rotation, where even second-option Andrew Wiggins is averaging just 26 minutes per game. Additionally, Melton has been working his way back from injury, and the team is managing his minutes carefully. As his conditioning improves, Kerr is expected to expand his role.

Looking ahead, the Warriors appear to have struck a promising balance between their veteran core and new additions. Melton’s arrival has eased the ball-handling burden on Curry and significantly upgraded the team’s defensive intensity. While Klay Thompson’s role can’t be fully replaced, Melton’s versatility gives Golden State a viable blueprint for future success.

BD Cricket Live analysts believe that if the Warriors stay healthy and continue elevating Melton’s responsibilities, they could become one of the top contenders in the West—perhaps even making another run at the championship.