Warriors' Bench Sparks Surge Ahead of Trade Deadline

De'Anthony Melton and other role players fuel Golden State's recent hot streak

Apr. 12, 2026 at 6:40am by

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, neon-colored brushstrokes that capture the dynamic movement and energy of a basketball game, with players' forms blending together in a vibrant, chaotic display.The Warriors' bench players have ignited a surge, fueling the team's recent hot streak with their energy, scoring, and defensive intensity.San Francisco Today

The Golden State Warriors have surged ahead of the NBA trade deadline, winning 11 of their last 15 games. While the team's stars like Steph Curry and Draymond Green have contributed, the Warriors' recent success has been fueled by key bench players like De'Anthony Melton, Al Horford, and Brandin Podziemski stepping up in a big way.

Why it matters

The Warriors' ability to get production from their bench players is a major reason for their recent turnaround. After a rough patch earlier in the season, the team has found its rhythm by establishing clear roles and building trust within their rotation, allowing them to weather unexpected changes like injuries or absences. This depth could be crucial as the Warriors look to make a deep playoff run.

The details

De'Anthony Melton has been the most impactful bench player, averaging 16.2 points over his last 10 games while shooting 39.3% from three-point range. Melton's scoring, playmaking, and defensive disruption have made the Warriors "completely different," according to Draymond Green. Veteran big man Al Horford has also solidified his role, averaging 7.7 points and 5.2 rebounds in the last 10 games. Rookie Brandin Podziemski has been on a hot streak as well, scoring at least 14 points in each of the Warriors' last four wins.

  • The Warriors have won 11 of their last 15 games.
  • The team's recent surge has come ahead of the February 5th NBA trade deadline.

The players

De'Anthony Melton

A key bench player for the Warriors who has averaged 16.2 points over his last 10 games, shooting 39.3% from three-point range. His scoring, playmaking, and defense have been crucial to the team's recent success.

Draymond Green

The Warriors' veteran forward, who praised Melton's contributions and said they make the team "completely different."

Steph Curry

The Warriors' superstar point guard, who called Melton "a gamer" who can score, create, and disrupt defensively.

Al Horford

The veteran big man who has solidified his role off the bench, averaging 7.7 points and 5.2 rebounds in the last 10 games.

Brandin Podziemski

The Warriors' rookie who has been on a hot streak, scoring at least 14 points in each of the team's last four wins.

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What they’re saying

“This is the most momentum we've had since we started out 4-1.”

— Steve Kerr, Warriors Head Coach

“De'Anthony Melton is a gamer who can score, create, and disrupt defensively.”

— Steph Curry

“Melton's contributions make the team completely different.”

— Draymond Green

What’s next

The Warriors will look to continue their strong play as the NBA trade deadline approaches on February 5th. Their depth and bench production could make them an attractive trade partner or allow them to stand pat and make a deep playoff run.

The takeaway

The Warriors' recent surge has been fueled by their bench players stepping up, particularly De'Anthony Melton. This depth and ability to get production from role players could be a key factor in the team's success as they look to make a deep playoff run.