5 Golden State Warriors most unlikely to return for the 2021-2022 season

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 25: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on March 25, 2021 in Sacramento, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 25: Kelly Oubre Jr. #12 of the Golden State Warriors warms up before the game against the Sacramento Kings at Golden 1 Center on March 25, 2021 in Sacramento, California. 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 Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
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Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-USA TODAY Sports

Golden State Warriors player unlikely to return: Kelly Oubre Jr.

There’s almost zero chance the Warriors and Kelly Oubre Jr. are able to work out a deal. Even a sign-and-trade at $20 million per year may be too difficult for the Warriors to make work on their end.

That’s the annual amount Oubre Jr.’s camp is reportedly wanting to get to. While his athleticism and energy may be worth that much, Oubre Jr. certainly didn’t show that much while with the Warriors.

After a terrific season in Phoenix, averaging over 18 points per game, Oubre Jr. saw that number dip to 15.4 with Golden State. His percentages took a dip as well, but as saw in his 40-point game against Dallas, the upside is there.

Oubre Jr. is just 25. He can create his own shot and thrives at attacking the rim. He’s a solid third-best player on a playoff-contending team, but he’ll still need to take that next step with his three-point shooting and decision-making.

The potential is real, but at that price, it’d be unrealistic for the Dubs to get him back. Now, everything changes if Oubre Jr. is willing to re-sign at a discounted rate, but that seems unlikely.