Imagine leading an NBA team in scoring, and then just a few days later, you find yourself job searching. This is the reality faced by Miles Kelly this week.
The 6-foot-5 guard from Auburn had an impressive outing last Wednesday, scoring 28 points off the bench during the Warriors’ preseason game against the Trail Blazers. He hit six three-pointers and had the highest plus-minus on the team, despite the Warriors losing 123-118.
But, by Sunday, he was unexpectedly let go.
In an effort to make room on the roster, Golden State brought in Tyler Burton on a non-guaranteed Exhibit 10 deal that could turn into a two-way or minimum contract. Burton, a 6-foot-7 wing who went undrafted after a five-year run at Villanova, averaged 10.8 points and 4.2 rebounds in 10 games with the Grizzlies last season.
Burton adds more options at a position where the Warriors needed help, especially since they will be without their top two wings, Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, for the first part of the season.
This decision might have shocked fans who were impressed by Kelly’s recent play. Although, it’s worth noting that those who watched the game knew Golden State was coming off a back-to-back, missing seven regular players.
The previous night against the Lakers, Kelly managed to score six points in just six minutes and made both of his three-point attempts. He had a solid shooting record, hitting 8 out of 15 from beyond the arc in three preseason games.
However, coach Steve Kerr seemed to have already made up his mind, keeping Kelly on the bench during the Warriors’ 111-106 win over the Kings on Saturday.
The following day, they decided to move on.
