We aren’t quite there yet… but it feels like it is only a matter of time before the Golden State Warriors, like the rest of the NBA, has to make use of the hardship exception.
The hardship exception has always been a tool for teams that are, well, going through hard times. Typically reserved for when a squad is depleted by injury or personal matters — the hardship exception has been expanded to new lengths as COVID-19 and the Omicron variant spreads across the league.
The Golden State Warriors better start scouting who they want to sign if they end up needing to use the hardship exception this season.
In a move to avoid shutting down the season like in 2020, the NBA and Players Union agreed to new rules surrounding the hardship exception. Now, teams will be able to exceed the 15-man limit whenever a player tests positive for COVID-19
Sources: The NBA will allow teams to sign one replacement player for each of its players who are under contract and tests positive for COVID-19 -- effective immediately through Jan. 19.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) December 20, 2021
This has already led to some whacky signings that have come out of desperation to fill rotations. The Atlanta Hawks recently signed Lance Stephenson while the Washington Wizards have added CJ Miles.
The Warriors have yet to make a move but with Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole already in health and safety protocols — we could see one soon. Here are a few names they should be monitoring.