Ranking 7 Possible Buyout Options for the Golden State Warriors

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 18, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 18, 2022 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
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Will Barton attacks Golden State Warriors’ Donte DiVincenzo during the preseason. (Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)
Will Barton attacks Golden State Warriors’ Donte DiVincenzo during the preseason. (Photo by Takashi Aoyama/Getty Images)

5. Will Barton

A 6’5″ wing does fill the need of what the Warriors could do with, but there is question marks on how Will Barton’s style would fit within the Golden State system. Can he instinctively move the ball offensively, and can he be solid enough defensively to warrant signing and earning 10-15 minutes per game?

Barton has become a free agent after orchestrating a buyout with the Washington Wizards, and given he’s only 32-years-old, he should still have plenty to give for a contending team. A long time member of the Denver Nuggets, Barton’s 40 games in Washington didn’t go to plan. He did however shoot 38% from three-point range, showing he can still be a catch-and-shoot threat on the perimeter. Not the perfect fit for the Warriors but wouldn’t be the worst option.

4. Serge Ibaka

At his best Serge Ibaka would be a fantastic pickup for Golden State — someone who can be a third big that brings elements as a stretch five offensively and capable shot-blocker on the other end. Unfortunately we haven’t seen Ibaka at his best for awhile, and at 33 years of age, we likely never will.

Serge Ibaka playing against the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Serge Ibaka playing against the Golden State Warriors in the 2019 NBA Finals. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

Ibaka’s played just 16 games with the Milwaukee Bucks this season, before being traded to the Indiana Pacers on Thursday as part of a deal for Jae Crowder. He’ll become a free agent again after a buyout with the Pacers, allowing him to join another contender. Is he a better option than JaMychal Green? That’s what the Warriors will have to evaluate.

3. Patrick Beverley

Patrick Beverley was linked to the Warriors on Saturday having been traded by the Los Angeles Lakers and then bought out by the Orlando Magic. Although the 34-year-old would be a fit at Golden State as a pesky perimeter defender and reasonable three-point shooter, the completion of the Gary Payton II trade makes it unlikely that he joins the reigning champions.