Warriors Center Adapts to Injury

Golden State Warriors two-way center Malevy Leons has earned the respect of his team and coaches by adapting his game after sustaining an injury to his right wrist. On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, during a game against the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center in San Francisco, California, Leons surprised many by shooting free throws with his left hand.

Facing Adversity with Resilience

Leons, a natural righthander, awkwardly cradled the ball with his left hand before shooting. He was determined to contribute despite the injury, especially with the Warriors facing a shortage of players – only nine were active.

Leons on His Adjustment

“It’s alright just don’t have like full mobility,” the 6-foot-9 Leons explained. “So I’ve been just like trying to find different ways to work around it. Yeah one of the things is left-handed free throws, been working on it with coach Mark. I made one today.”

Impressing Coaches and Teammates

Leons successfully split a pair of free throw attempts in the fourth quarter against the Spurs, after battling Victor Wembanyama and San Antonio’s front line. Coach Steve Kerr noted Leons’ dedication, stating that he practices left-handed free throws daily.

Kerr's Observations

“So every day at practice he’s shooting left handed free throws,” Kerr said. He also mentioned that Leons proactively requested a play adjustment during a recent game against Dallas to allow him to make a pass with his left hand.

Curry's Admiration

Teammate Seth Curry, a career 86% free throw shooter, expressed his admiration for Leons’ willingness to try something new. “I’m probably one of the worst lefthanded shooters you’ll see, so if I was in, I probably would have had to go and underhanded it,” Curry said. “It was impressive seeing him going out there, and not be ashamed or afraid, and trying stuff out and trying to be available.”

A Valuable Contributor

Leons, 26, has appeared in 20 games for the Warriors this season. While not a primary scorer, he has established himself as a valuable defender and passer. As a player on a two-way contract, he is striving to prove his worth and secure a permanent spot in the league.

Despite the limitations imposed by his injury, Leons still managed to contribute five points, four rebounds, five assists, and two steals in the game against the Spurs.