5 Best Available Free Agents for the Golden State Warriors
The Golden State Warriors are seeking to fill some gaps this offseason. Having made key moves already, here are the top 5 available free agents who could elevate their game.
The Warriors have been active this offseason, making several significant moves to bolster their roster. They acquired Buddy Hield in a sign-and-trade deal, bringing in a reliable sharpshooter to replace Klay Thompson, who signed with the Dallas Mavericks. Additionally, the Warriors strengthened their bench by signing De’Anthony Melton and acquiring Kyle Anderson, adding depth and versatility to their rotation.
Despite these additions, the Warriors still need to address a few key areas to maximize their championship potential. Here are the top 5 available free agents who could significantly impact the Warriors this season.
1. Evan Fournier
Evan Fournier could bring valuable scoring and veteran experience to the Warriors. After the Detroit Pistons declined his $19 million team option for the 2024-25 season, Fournier is now an unrestricted free agent. Last season with the Pistons, Fournier averaged 7.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game over 29 appearances, shooting 40.7% from the field and 33.6% from beyond the arc.
Fournier’s ability to space the floor with his shooting makes him a potential asset for the Warriors, who need consistent perimeter scoring to complement their stars. Signing Fournier to a veteran minimum deal would be strategic. His experience, including a productive stint with the Orlando Magic where he averaged 16.2 points per game, would provide additional depth and reliability off the bench.
Given his preference to remain in the NBA and the Warriors’ need for bench scoring, Fournier could be a key piece in their pursuit of another championship run. His familiarity with high-pressure situations and ability to score in various ways make him a versatile addition to the Warriors’ lineup.
2. Isaiah Livers
Isaiah Livers could bring youth, versatility, and a solid shooting touch to the Warriors. Traded mid-season from the Pistons to the Washington Wizards, Livers’ 2023-24 campaign was cut short due to a hip injury. Before the injury, Livers averaged 5.0 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game over 23 appearances for the Pistons.
Despite his injury setbacks, Livers has shown flashes of potential as a reliable rotation player. His ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc and defend multiple positions makes him an attractive option for a team looking to add depth. As a restricted free agent, Livers could be a savvy pickup for the Warriors, potentially signed on a reasonable deal that fits within their cap constraints.
Adding Livers would inject some much-needed youth and energy into the Warriors’ lineup. His defensive versatility aligns well with Golden State’s system, and his shooting can help space the floor, providing more opportunities for the team’s star players to operate. With proper development and health management, Livers has the potential to become a key contributor as the Warriors aim to strengthen their bench and make another deep playoff run.
3. Davis Bertans
Davis Bertans could greatly benefit the Warriors with his elite three-point shooting and ability to space the floor. After being traded from the Oklahoma City Thunder to the Charlotte Hornets, Bertans averaged 8.8 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game over 28 appearances, shooting 39.4% from the field and 37.5% from beyond the arc.
Bertans has built a reputation as one of the league’s most reliable shooters, holding a career three-point shooting percentage of 39.7%. Despite being waived by the Hornets to clear cap space, his shooting prowess ensures that he remains a valuable asset in free agency.
Bertans’ ability to stretch the floor would provide a significant boost. His presence would create more space for the team’s stars, particularly Stephen Curry, allowing them to thrive. Signing Bertans to a veteran minimum deal would be a strategic move for the Warriors, enhancing their bench depth and providing another reliable scoring option. His experience and ability to hit crucial shots make him a perfect fit for a team aiming to maintain its championship contention.
4. Victor Oladipo
Victor Oladipo could provide the Warriors with much-needed depth and experience on the perimeter. Oladipo, a former two-time All-Star, has struggled with injuries in recent years, which have significantly limited his playing time. Last season, after being traded from the Houston Rockets to the Memphis Grizzlies, Oladipo was waived by the Grizzlies without playing a game due to a lingering left patellar tendon injury.
Despite his recent injury history, Oladipo’s potential impact should not be underestimated. When healthy, he has shown the ability to be a dynamic scorer and a tenacious defender. Over his career, he has averaged 17.4 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. His best season came in 2017-18 with the Indiana Pacers, where he averaged 23.1 points and led the league in steals with 2.3 per game.
A healthy Oladipo could provide the Warriors with a versatile option capable of playing multiple positions on the perimeter. Given the team’s need for depth and the likelihood that Oladipo would be willing to sign a prove-it deal, he could be an ideal low-risk, high-reward signing. His ability to contribute on both ends of the floor and provide a scoring punch off the bench could be invaluable for the Warriors as they aim for another deep playoff run.
In summary, adding Victor Oladipo would bring a veteran presence with a high upside if he can return to form. His defensive prowess and scoring ability make him an intriguing option for the Warriors to consider as they finalize their roster.
5. Gordon Hayward
Gordon Hayward could provide the Warriors with a blend of veteran experience and versatile scoring. Last season, after being waived by the Charlotte Hornets, Hayward signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder as a free agent. Throughout the season, he averaged 9.8 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game in 51 appearances, maintaining a shooting percentage of 46.0% from the field and 33.8% from beyond the arc.
Despite dealing with injuries, Hayward has consistently demonstrated his ability to contribute effectively when healthy. His versatility allows him to play multiple positions, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to add depth and experience. His career includes an All-Star selection and multiple seasons as a reliable scorer and playmaker.
For the Warriors, signing Hayward to a veteran minimum deal would be a strategic move. His ability to provide scoring from the wing and play multiple positions fits well with the team’s offensive system. Additionally, his experience and leadership would be invaluable for a roster that includes younger players looking to develop and contribute to another championship run.
Overall, Gordon Hayward’s addition would enhance the Warriors’ depth, offering a versatile forward capable of impacting the game on both ends of the floor. His presence could provide a much-needed boost in scoring and veteran savvy as the Warriors aim to solidify their roster for the upcoming season.
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