As the Golden State Warriors gear up for their regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, the team is still tinkering with their starting lineup. While stalwarts like Steph Curry anchor the roster, a surprising name has emerged as the Warriors’ biggest X-factor for the 2025-26 season: rookie guard Will Richard. His unexpected rise has sent shockwaves through the Bay Area, catching even his teammates off guard.
The 22-year-old, 6’4″ guard was selected 56th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2025 NBA Draft before being traded to Golden State. Richard, fresh off a National Championship win with the University of Florida, signed a four-year deal with the Warriors—a clear signal that the franchise sees significant potential in the young talent. While low second-round picks often spend their rookie seasons developing in the G League, Richard’s preseason performance suggests he’s ready to contribute now.
Richard turned heads in the Warriors’ final two preseason games, dropping 13 points in each and sinking three 3-pointers per game while earning surprise starts. Though these starts don’t guarantee a spot in Steve Kerr’s opening-night lineup, they hint at Richard’s ability to carve out a meaningful role. His sharpshooting and poise on the court have drawn comparisons—albeit cautious ones—to the Warriors’ former backcourt stars like Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole. While Richard is far from their caliber, his willingness to shoot from deep could add a dynamic element to Golden State’s offense.
For now, Brandin Podziemski appears to be the frontrunner to start alongside Curry. The 2023 19th overall pick has earned Kerr’s trust with his versatile offensive game and ability to impact plays in multiple ways. Podziemski’s chemistry with Curry makes him a logical fit, but if he stumbles early in the season, Kerr might look to shake things up. Enter Will Richard.
Richard’s shooting prowess could provide the Warriors with a throwback to the spacing and firepower they enjoyed during their dynasty years. His ability to stretch the floor could complement Curry’s gravity, giving Golden State a fresh look. Even if he doesn’t crack the starting lineup, Richard’s preseason showings suggest he could become a vital piece of the second unit, providing scoring punch and energy off the bench.
Last season, Kerr cycled through numerous starting combinations in search of the perfect formula. This year, the Warriors aim for more consistency, but Richard’s emergence adds an exciting wrinkle to their plans. With an aging core, Golden State must prioritize rest for their stars to stay fresh for a playoff push. Richard’s ability to step up in spot minutes or even extended roles could prove crucial in managing the workload of veterans like Curry, Draymond Green, and others.
The Warriors’ locker room may not have anticipated Richard’s rapid ascent, but his potential to impact the season is undeniable. Whether he’s raining threes as a starter or sparking the second unit, the rookie guard is poised to be a game-changer. As Golden State embarks on another championship chase, Will Richard could be the unexpected key to unlocking their full potential.