Golden State Warriors: Signing Andre Iguodala is a mistake
By Tony Pesta
Andre Iguodala will forever be loved by the Golden State Warriors.
But, bringing the 2015 NBA Finals MVP back for another run in 2022-23? A mistake.
Nothing is official yet. The Warriors still have an unfilled roster spot.
According to reports, the franchise is leaving this spot open for Iguodala to decide if he wants to return as a player — or begin his coaching career.
As of now, Iggy seems to be eyeing another NBA player paycheck. All indicators point towards Iguodala coming back to the game for his 19th season.
The Golden State Warriors should not bring Andre Iguodala back as a player despite his long-standing history with the franchise.
While he has more than earned the right to be the Udonis Haslem of the Warriors — it would be in everyone’s best interest if Iggy did not return to the court next season.
He didn’t exactly play heavy minutes during the Warriors’ championship run. Iggy was injured for most of the season and when he was healthy enough to play, he wasn’t much of a contributor.
His veteran experience and chemistry with the big three is unparalleled, that’s for sure.
But Iguodala’s athleticism, defense and scoring have diminished greatly. With Otto Porter and Nemanja Bjelica leaving this summer — the Dubs need a frontcourt player who can shoot the ball.
Signing Iggy would leave them in a tough position.
Iguodala shot 23% from deep in the regular season and 33% in the playoffs. This lack of shooting will severely limit the Warriors next season.
Other floor-spacing options exist and are still available on the market. None of them have the same relationship with the franchise as Iggy but they could be more conducive to winning basketball games.
By no means should this come as disrespect to Iguodala, but his time as a rotational player has passed. Returning to the Warriors would do more harm than good.