Jordan Bell makes case for starting job in Warriors’ preseason opener

Late in the first quarter Saturday night, Jordan Bell caught a pass from Quinn Cook at the top of the key, turned and drained a 20-foot jumper over the outstretched arm of Minnesota's Gorgui Dieng. It was a relatively nondescript play in the Warriors' 114-110 loss to the Timberwolves at Oracle Arena. But for a team in need of a capable replacement for the injured DeMarcus Cousins, that jumper from Bell was the type of feel-good development that makes the preseason valuable. As a rookie last season, Bell kept things simple, taking 81.7 percent of his shots within 10 feet of the rim. By even pulling up from midrange Saturday, he showcased newfound self-assuredness.