Golden State Warriors: 3 way-too-early bold predictions for 2017-18

OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 12: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a basket by Stephen Curry #30 in Game 5 of the 2017 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 12, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
OAKLAND, CA - JUNE 12: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors reacts after a basket by Stephen Curry #30 in Game 5 of the 2017 NBA Finals at ORACLE Arena on June 12, 2017 in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /
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Golden State Warriors
GLENDALE, AZ – APRIL 01: Jordan Bell #1 of the Oregon Ducks reacts during their game against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the 2017 NCAA Men’s Final Four Semifinal at University of Phoenix Stadium on April 1, 2017 in Glendale, Arizona. North Carolina defeated Oregon 77-76. (Photo by Lance King/Getty Images) /

Jordan Bell wins 2017-18 Rookie of the Year

On the surface, this seems like a crazy prediction. I mean, how is Jordan Bell supposed to stand out to that degree on a loaded team like the Warriors? Well if the Milwaukee Bucks’ Malcolm Brogdon could do it a season ago, I’m sure the 2017 second round pick can figure it out.

Now there are two things playing into this Rookie of the Year prediction.

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The first is that Bell has the tools to be a standout player in the NBA. Although he lacks ideal height for today’s big man, he wins with strength, tenacity and determination. He excels on the boards, is capable of putting up big points and is a defensive standout as well. Sounds a lot like another Warriors player we know…

Here’s the other part: I’m predicting Draymond Green suffers a significant injury. Obviously I wouldn’t wish this on anyone, but the Warriors can’t continue to be this lucky, right? Someone’s going to fall this season, so I’m guessing it’ll be Green. That’ll then open a door for Bell to steal the show as Golden State’s starting power forward.

Bell landed in an ideal situation. Not only does he start his career with a dynasty, but he’s in an environment where he can learn and thrive. The former Duck is an immense building block for this team, and should see his stock soar as the seasons go by.

Or, if my prediction comes true, his stock will be through the roof by the time his rookie year is in the books. Bleacher Report‘s Jonathan Wasserman already nominated him as this draft’s top second-round steal, so the hype is building.