Breaking News: Mike Dunleavy Jr. Identifies 3 Superior Free Agents for the Warriors
With Klay Thompson and Chris Paul’s contracts off the books, the Golden State Warriors had significant financial flexibility this offseason to explore the free-agent market.
Since the opening of free agency on June 30, speculation has been rampant that a big move by the Warriors could still be in the works. Currently, Golden State has 14 roster positions filled with guaranteed deals, not including second-round draft pick Quentin Post.
Let’s examine the Warriors’ three major free-agent signings and the superior alternatives GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. should have considered instead. Notably, two of these players signed cheaper deals elsewhere.
Warriors Signed: Former Minnesota Timberwolves Forward Kyle Anderson (Three-Year, $27 Million Deal, Third Year Non-Guaranteed)
Should Have Signed: New Chicago Bulls Forward Jalen Smith (Three-Year, $27 Million Deal)
Anderson is a versatile veteran known for his defensive skills and high basketball IQ. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, he brings size and length to the team. However, at nearly 31 years old, Anderson’s offensive contributions are limited, with just a 22.9% three-point shooting rate and an average of 6.4 points last season.
In contrast, Smith is a younger and more dynamic option. At 6-foot-9 and 215 pounds with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, he won’t turn 25 until March. Smith had a breakout season with Indiana in 2023-24, averaging 9.9 points and 5.5 rebounds in just 17.2 minutes per game while shooting an impressive 42.4% from deep.
Warriors Signed: Former Philadelphia 76ers Point Guard De’Anthony Melton (One-Year, $12.8 Million Deal)
Should Have Signed: Phoenix Suns Guard/Forward Josh Okogie (Two-Year, $16 Million Deal, Second Season Non-Guaranteed)
Melton, a defensive stalwart, was likely available for a one-year deal due to back injuries that caused him to miss 44 games last season. He is a career 36.9% three-point shooter who averaged 11.1 points last season. However, at 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, he shares a similar stature to Stephen Curry, which could be a disadvantage in the backcourt.
Okogie, known for his defensive prowess and chemistry-building skills, shot an incredible 77.8% from deep in four games against the Warriors last season. His presence would have bolstered the Warriors’ defense without compromising their height advantage.
Warriors Signed: Former Philadelphia 76ers Shooting Guard Buddy Hield (Four-Year, $37.4 Million Deal, First Two Years Guaranteed)
Should Have Signed: New Washington Wizards Forward Saddiq Bey (Three-Year, $20 Million Deal)
Hield is expected to replace Thompson’s outside shooting despite a decline to 38.6% from deep last season, below his career 40% average. At 6-foot-4, Hield faces stiff competition for minutes in a crowded wing position, competing with Curry, Melton, Brandin Podziemski, Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, Lindy Waters III, and two-way players Pat Spencer, Daeqwon Plowden, and Reece Beekman.
Bey, at 6-foot-7, would have provided the size the Warriors need. Despite recovering from an ACL tear, Bey averaged 13.7 points and 6.5 rebounds last season. His larger frame and potential for growth would have been valuable assets for Golden State.
While the Warriors have made significant moves this offseason, these alternative signings could have potentially provided more value and addressed key areas of need for the team.
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