Since leaving the Philadelphia 76ers, De’Anthony Melton has been rocky. Part and parcel for his icky play since then is the fact that injuries have swallowed him whole. In fact, he missed all but six games last season due to a torn ACL, which took him over a calendar year to return from. Now, he seems more than ready to go for the Warriors.
Melton was fortunate that the Warriors signed him to another deal despite him suiting up in just six game for them a season prior. That might be a huge risk, but it definitely looks like it’s going to pay off given how Melton has looked so far since making his return. Put simply, he has quickly asserted himself on the Dubs.
After more than a year-long absence, Melton has turned in averages of 13.5 points, two assists, and two steals per outing in just 19 minutes of game play. While it’s only been two games and the sample size is pretty small, he has been as good as advertised for the Warriors.
Former 76ers guard De’Anthony Melton has been showing out for the Warriors
With Steph Curry currently sidelined due to injury, the Dubs need all the help they can get to help fill his massive void at PG. While Melton is a vastly different player, he at least gives Golden State some much needed stability at the guard positions.
One of the better guard defenders in the league, Melton can cover a lot of mistakes on defense with his ability to easily latch onto bigger players. He also has a lot of experience with him, which is useful given the Warriors’ complex style on both ends.
On offense, Melton is a stable spot-up shooter who gives them another threat on the perimeter. He does not make a lot of mistakes when he is handling the rock, and his passing is not too shabby either.
So far, Melton is playing exactly like the player who was a starter for the 76ers for the most part. While he is no longer with the franchise, it is definitely a welcome sight to see him make a successful return and play well right from the get-go.
Hopefully, De’Anthony Melton can finally stay healthy. The former 76ers guard had just entered his prime, and it would be unfortunate to see him struggle with the injury bug once more, especially with his great fit with his current team.