During his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, De'Anthony Melton was highly appreciated by the fan base after proving that his offensive impact from the bench was vital when superstar Joel Embiid was not on the floor. However, a lingering back issue in Philadelphia and a partially torn ACL in his left knee after signing with the Golden State Warriors have both limited his availability over the past two seasons. Now, with a fresh bill of health, Melton is showing the league exactly what he is capable of.
After scoring 10.1 points per game while averaging 39% from deep in his first year with the franchise (2022-23), Melton's time in Philadelphia came to a standstill due to persistent back problems. The 27-year-old only featured for the 76ers on 38 occasions during the 2023-24 season, and rarely strung together consecutive appearances to showcase to his employers why he can be an integral part of a winning roster.
His first year in San Francisco continued in a similar manner. Melton sustained a season-ending ACL injury on November 12, 2024, against the Dallas Mavericks, preventing him from returning to the court until December 2025. The issue for the former USC guard has never been his offensive attributes; it has been his ability to avoid injuries for a prolonged period of time. Melton may finally alter this narrative with his latest antics.
Healthy Melton proves beneficial for Golden State
It is no coincidence that De'Anthony Melton's elevated performances coincide with a stretch of games where the guard has not aggravated any of his injury problems. Additionally, it should come as no surprise to the Warriors that their form has drastically improved now that the former Sixer has been available for selection, winning eight of their last 10 games.
Of course, it should be stated that this positive assault on the Western Conference cannot be solely attributed to the improved performances of Melton, especially given the fact that this roster boasts a generational talent like Steph Curry and a proven star such as Jimmy Butler. Nevertheless, his contribution from the bench has undoubtedly provided an extra offensive punch to the rotation.
In January, Melton has totalled 15.1 points per game, while draining 50% of his field goal attempts, and 43.5% from three-point range. For a team like the Warriors, who religiously space the floor and prioritise shots from beyond the arc, Melton's efficiency from this distance will have head coach Steve Kerr frothing at the mouth. More so because of the inconsistent showings of another former 76ers guard, Buddy Hield.
De'Anthony Melton's resurgence will come as no surprise to the City of Philadelphia. The fact that is more shocking is that the sharpshooter has found stability with his health, and as it stands, his sporadic appearances on the floor are no longer a problem. If this current series of fortunate events continues, then the Golden State Warriors will have themselves a dangerous weapon from the bench.