Niang's Patience: Warriors' Slow Burn

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr is exercising patience with veteran forward Georges Niang, who is still working to regain his on-court form. Following the team's third consecutive loss to start the 2026-2027 NBA season, Kerr acknowledged Niang's extended absence due to injuries.

Niang was sidelined for the entire 2025-2026 NBA season after sustaining a fourth metatarsal stress reaction in his left foot during offseason training in September 2025. This injury followed a reliable 2024-2025 season where he played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks.

Upon joining the Warriors for the 2026-2027 season, Niang signed a one-year contract valued at $3.9 million. He has appeared in the team's opening games, contributing 7 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals in his debut, followed by more modest performances in subsequent games.

Kerr expressed confidence in Niang's ability to adapt, noting, "Georges will find his way." He emphasized that Niang hasn't played in nearly a year and needs time to build his stamina and game rhythm. Niang previously reflected on his decade-old experience training with the Warriors dynasty, citing their routines as inspiration.