After a solid season, the Golden State Warriors are expected to go back to their old winning ways.
Klay Thompson will be returning from a 2-year absence and is highly motivated to show out. Whilst Klay was on vacation in the off-season, he reiterated who he believes the Warriors will be the 2022 champs.
The Golden State Warriors need to make some roster moves in the off-eason to get back to their winning ways and adding a center is one of them.
Although I like my chances with the Splash Brothers and Draymond Green, I believe the Warriors are missing a key component. A big man who will constantly provide rim protection along with defensive leadership.
Yes, Kevon Looney picked up his $5.1 million option for next season, and the Wiseman will be a bit more developed. That’s great for depth. But to achieve the ultimate goal of another championship, the Warriors will need to invest all their chips into a seasoned center.
Here are some options for the Warriors:
1. Nerlens Noel
Nerlens Noel is a highly unappreciated big man in the NBA. This is due to his low-end numbers on the box score. Noel was incredibly important in the success of the New York Knicks making the playoffs for the first time since the Carmelo Anthony era.
Although Julius Randle careers their offense in his All-star breakout season, Noel carried them on the defensive end.
Noel averaged a phenomenal 2.2 block while adding on 1.1 steals per game. Although he didn’t get recognized on any All-Defense teams, he certainly deserved it. The Knicks ranked 4th in the NBA in defensive rating as well as 4th in opposing points in the paint.
Look for the Warriors to keep the upcoming free agent on their radar in the offseason.
2. RIchaun Holmes
Richaun Holmes may be a bit of a stretch due to his because of his outstanding improvement.
He’s been a revelation for the Sacramento Kings. The 27-year old big man averaged a career-best 14.2 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. Not to mention he mustered up 1.6 blocks per game and shot 63.7 percent from the field.
In my estimation, Holmes will be looking to lock up an $80 million contract.
Although a stretch, Holmes would fit wonderfully in the Warriors culture.
Noel and Holmes would be an incredible fit for the Warriors’ dynamic ball-moving scheme. A big man of their stature would allow for the Warriors to make another run for the Championship. I believe in the Warriors front office.
They will do anything to maximize the potential while having their Big 3 in their prime.