As the Golden State Warriors continue their quest for another NBA championship, a new generation of talent has emerged to complement their seasoned veterans. Leading this youth movement is Trayce Jackson-Davis, a second-year forward who has firmly cemented his place in the Warriors’ rotation.
Jackson-Davis, a former Indiana Hoosier, has started in 21 consecutive games dating back to last season. Known for his athleticism and ability to finish at the rim, the 22-year-old has also proven to be a decisive passer and a reliable ball handler, boasting a low turnover percentage.
In a recent interview with Spencer Davies of Responsible Gambler, Jackson-Davis highlighted the value he and other young players like Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody bring to the Warriors. “Having youth and being able to get out and run—that’s a huge thing that coaches talked about,” he said, underscoring head coach Steve Kerr’s emphasis on pace and energy.
“Obviously, [the veterans are] getting older, but at the same time, they’re still playing at a very high level,” Jackson-Davis added, acknowledging the continued contributions of experienced players like Steph Curry and Klay Thompson. The Warriors’ strategy this season has been to strike a balance, leveraging the youthful exuberance of their rising stars while also relying on the guidance and expertise of their seasoned veterans.
This approach has become a crucial component of Golden State’s game plan, especially with a rotation of 12 players. “That’s what Coach Kerr always says. Go bust your ass for five minutes and then get a sub,” Jackson-Davis said, highlighting Kerr’s demand for high-intensity play regardless of court time.
The Warriors have strategically positioned Jackson-Davis and Podziemski in supporting roles to maintain the pace and energy required by the team’s demanding style. At 7.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, Jackson-Davis has matched his scoring from his rookie season while growing into his role within the Warriors’ system. Averaging 16.8 minutes per game, the forward is carving out his place as a reliable option for the Warriors.
The addition of seasoned veterans like Buddy Hield, De’Anthony Melton, and Kyle Anderson during the offseason has also benefited Jackson-Davis, who continues to learn from players like Kevon Looney and the new free agent additions.
“[The veterans are] a lot of guys on the team that you can learn from,” Jackson-Davis said, describing himself as a “sponge” during his time with the Warriors, constantly working to absorb the knowledge and experience of his seasoned teammates.
Jackson-Davis’ versatile skill set complements Kerr’s emphasis on fast, high-pressure play—a system that has propelled Golden State to third place in the Western Conference with an 8-2 record.
Jackson-Davis and his fellow young stars will showcase their growing roles on the court as the Warriors prepare to host the Dallas Mavericks and former warrior Klay Thompson. With their blend of youthful energy and veteran guidance, the Warriors are poised to make another deep playoff run, solidifying their status as one of the NBA’s premier franchises.