His chances of being sent to the NBDL went down a notch with Golden State’s release of power forward Rodney White. Taft will be given every chance to stay with the Warriors to provide bench depth.

Taft is a strong shot blocker — he had 110 in his two years with the Panthers — and rebounder. He has an improving midrange jumper as well, and while he is an outstanding athlete, scouts questioned Taft’s work ethic before the draft. With Golden State releasing Rodney White on Thursday, Taft should get an opportunity to stick.

“I can’t wait to show everybody what I can do,” said Taft, who will also play for the Warriors’ summer-league team. “It’s disappointing I didn’t get picked in the first round, but this is a very, very good fit for me.”

It’s not like Taft has never shown motivation. He did in his first year. It is about maintaining the energy and levels.