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Golden State Warriors: 6 veteran centers to target with MLE

By Tony Pesta

TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 22: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after scoring a basket during second half their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on January 22, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ON - JANUARY 22: Serge Ibaka #9 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after scoring a basket during second half their NBA game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Scotiabank Arena on January 22, 2020 in Toronto, Canada. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Cole Burston/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
(Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

1. Serge Ibaka

Ideally, the Golden State Warriors will want to sign a player who has been battle-tested. Who better to target than Serge Ibaka? He has been a member of multiple deep playoff runs and helped take down the Warriors in last year’s NBA Finals.

Ibaka is out of his prime as a prolific shot blocker, but he is still capable of anchoring a defense. His timing is as strong as ever and he is nimble enough on his feet to adequately switch onto quicker players on the perimeter. Ibaka is everything you need from a modern-day center.

Offensively, Ibaka offers the shooting that Golden State is looking for. He has a pure looking stroke and shot close to a career-best of 38.5 percent from the 3-point line last season. Slotting Ibaka next to Draymond Green is a sure-fire way to improve this team on both sides of the ball.

Overall, Ibaka averaged 15.4 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.4 assists per game as a bench player for more than half of the year. He brings experience and resilience to a team looking to rebuild its championship culture. Ibaka is worth every penny of the mid-level exception if he is willing to sign for a lower contract.

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