The Golden State Warriors had some room to maneuver financially this offseason.
With Klay Thompson and Chris Paul’s contracts off the books, they explored the free-agent market. Even though free agency has cooled since June 30, there’s still buzz about a potential big move by the Warriors. For now, they have 14 guaranteed roster spots filled, not counting second-round pick Quentin Post.
Let’s dive into their three major signings and who might have been better choices.
Warriors’ Free-Agent Moves:
First up, the Warriors signed former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson in a sign-and-trade deal for three years at $27 million. Known as “Slo Mo” for his slow pace , Anderson brings defensive skills and high basketball IQ but lacks offensive firepower. He shot only 22.9% from three-point range last season and averaged just 6.4 points per game.
On the flip side, Jalen Smith would have been a better choice. The new Chicago Bulls forward also signed a three-year deal for $27 million but is younger and had a breakout season with Indiana last year. Smith averaged 9.9 points and shot an impressive 42.4% from deep.
Next, they picked up DeโAnthony Melton from the Philadelphia 76ers on a one-year contract worth $12.8 million. Melton is known for his defense but missed many games last season due to back injuries. He’s also shorter than ideal at just over six feet tall when paired with Stephen Curry in the backcourt.
Fans might think this was not the best move considering Melton’s injury history.
Josh Okogie would have been another option; he signed a two-year deal with Phoenix Suns for $16 million. Okogie is great defensively and has good team chemistryโplus he shot an amazing 77.8% from deep against the Warriors last season!
Lastly, Buddy Hield joined via sign-and-trade from Philadelphia on a four-year deal worth $37.4 million with two years guaranteed. Hield is expected to replace Thompsonโs outside shooting despite hitting only 38.6% of his threes last seasonโbelow his career average of 40%. Thereโs also stiff competition for minutes at his position.
Saddiq Bey could’ve been more suitable even though he’s recovering from an ACL tear suffered in March . Bey is taller at six-foot-seven and averaged more points (13.7) and rebounds (6.5) than Hield last season despite struggling with his three-point shot.
What do you think? Did the Warriors make smart moves or miss out on better options?
