Golden State Warriors: 2 Options for final two-way spot

With the decision to cut Jeff Dowtin, the Golden State Warriors now have an available two-way roster spot they should look to fill. Who can they target?

The talent pool is thin, but the Golden State Warriors should be trying to sign someone with their final two-way spot.

The NBA’s two-way contract rarely makes a difference. Most two-way players provide marginal upgrades, if any, to a team that is depleted of talent.

However, the Warriors are fully aware of how beneficial a two-way signing can be.

Juan Toscano-Anderson, Gary Payton II and Damion Lee each joined the Dubs via two-way contracts before proving themselves worthy of long term stays.

Other notable success stories include Duncan Robinson, Alex Caruso and Shake Milton.

This season, more than ever, the Warriors could use another asset. The NBA is dealing with rampant COVID-19 cases, forcing team’s to dig deep into their rotation.

Golden State has already had multiple players in health and safety protocols, including Draymond Green, Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins.

Two-way contracts are limited

Now, it is important to recognize that two-way contracts are not standard NBA deals. They come with some caveats. Most importantly, a two-way player must have fewer than four years of league experience.

This means veteran names like Marc Gasol and Glenn Robinson III will not be eligible for a two-way contract, despite being ideal targets for Golden State.

Again, with every team in the league looking to add as much talent as possible due to COVID-19, the talent pool is running thin.

Jeremiah Tilmon could benefit the Warriors

One name that could emerge as a quality free agent is Jermiah Tilmon. The 2020-21 All-SEC member went undrafted and was cut by the Orlando Magic after a brief Summer League stint but could have something to offer.

An athletic 6’10” forward who showed a knack for blocking shots and rebounding in college, it’s possible Tilmon just needs a chance to get his feet wet at the NBA level. The Warriors have room for him in the frontcourt and could be surprised by his efficiency at the rim.

Mfiondu Kabengele is the best available option

Even better is Mfiondu Kabengele, who has two-years of NBA experience and could play a similar role to that of Eric Paschall, a former member of the Warriors.

Kabengele is a tanky forward who can dribble the ball, attack the basket and step outside of the paint for jumpers. He scored 26 points in a recent G-League game, showing his prowess as a scorer and offensive rebounder.

I think fans would be surprised by Kabengele’s energy and skill-level in the frontcourt. He appears to be a hidden gem that simply needs a home in the NBA.