Warriors Rookie Will Richard's 30-Point First Start

Will Richard, the 56th pick in the 2025 draft, burst onto the scene with 30 points in his first NBA start — a performance foreshadowed by Steve Kerr’s praise that “he’s making the right reads and rotations defensively … I have no doubt when his name is called, he will play.” The game mattered because it showed a polished, four‑year college pro can immediately supply hustle, smart cuts and defense for a Warriors team juggling veteran rest and lineup gaps. Merlin sees a classic Golden State archetype: a 6'5" veteran‑college wing and national champion who knows where to be and how to help. He won’t shoot 79.4% forever, but his instincts and timing fill the cracks teams need when stars sit or trades shuffle roles — especially contrasted with the fit issues that have dogged Jonathan Kuminga.