The Golden State Warriors are going to be on the market looking for a backup point guard this summer. Whether they find one in the NBA Draft or through free agency — securing a guard who is capable of filling in for Stephen Curry is vital.
Last season, things quickly went sour whenever Curry was on the bench. The Dubs had no one to run the offense in his absence and struggled to score the ball. Klay Thompson’s return will only go so far to help as he will need to sit down at some point, as well.
For this reason, the Dubs should be keeping their options open for this incredibly important role. One player who might seem like an unlikely fit is Eric Bledsoe — who might become available this summer.
Eric Bledsoe could become a free agent and the Golden State Warriors should be monitoring his situation in the event they can sign him.
Anyone who watched Bledsoe play in New Orleans last year understands that he didn’t have the best run of his career. In fact, he was pretty bad for the majority of last season. He averaged 12.2 points on 42.1 percent shooting but was a horrid decision-maker on both ends of the floor. He showed relatively zero enthusiasm and this was all after an embarrassing collapse in the 2020 NBA Playoffs for Milwaukee.
So, what exactly makes Bledsoe a candidate for the Warriors?
Well, the fact remains Bledsoe is a sturdy defender who can score and create plays for others when he’s engaged. The key here is ensuring Bledsoe would be fully motivated to suit up for the Warriors.
For all his shortcomings, Bledsoe has had success in the NBA. He’s a two-time All-Defensive Team member and averaged 21.1 points just four seasons ago in Phoenix. Restricting his playing time into short bursts on the bench could maximize whatever he has left to offer.
Recently traded to the Memphis Grizzlies, Bledsoe is expected to be moved again before the season starts. This either means he will be traded again (unlikely given his contract and recent performance) or bought out.
The Warriors should at least do their due diligence by meeting with Bledsoe and determining if he can salvage his career in the Bay if he is released by Memphis.