Golden State Warriors rookie Eric Paschall recorded a team-high 30 points and seven rebounds Sunday night in a 108-100 loss on the road against the New Orleans Pelicans.
The second-round pick has now scored at least 30 points in two games this season, the most among first-year players, according to Marc Stein of the New York Times. He previously recorded a career-high 34 points on Nov. 4 against the Portland Trail Blazers. Paschall finished by shooting 10-of-17 from the field on Sunday.
Paschall continued his strong start to the season with the Warriors. He has taken advantage of his newfound opportunity and has run with it. Paschall has proven to be a dynamic scoring threat that can shoot, hit the mid-range shot and drive to the rim — he attempted a season-high 10 free throws.
After losing several players this season due to injury, including Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, the Warriors have struggled on the court, dropping their seventh straight game on Sunday to fall to 2-12. In total, 11 players have missed at least one game this season due to injury, opening the door for players like Paschall to step in and contribute.
While the Warriors may struggle this season, one silver lining for fans will be to watch the younger players on the roster, like Paschall, Jordan Poole and Ky Bowman, develop into future contributors.
The Warriors play next on Tuesday against the Memphis Grizzlies.
[lawrence-related id=6710,6916,6847]