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Ranking 7 Possible Buyout Options for the Golden State Warriors

By Peter O'Keefe

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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Stanley Johnson battles Golden State Warriors’ Jordan Poole. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Stanley Johnson battles Golden State Warriors’ Jordan Poole. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

2. Stanley Johnson

Stanley Johnson might be the least known player of these seven, but Golden State shouldn’t let that be the reason not to go after him. Most of these options are aging veterans who are well past their best, but at 26-years-old, Johnson is still on the way up.

He’s had a long-winded career since being the eighth overall pick by the Detroit Pistons in 2015, with the San Antonio Spurs providing his latest stint in the league. At 6’6″ with good athleticism, Johnson could play both forward positions or even some small-ball center for the Warriors. He’s shooting 53.3% from the field and 45% from three in 30 games with the Spurs this season, leaving his waiving as somewhat of a surprise over the weekend.

Golden State could utilize him as insurance for Jonathan Kuminga who remains a little inconsistent in just his second season. While Johnson doesn’t have nearly the same defensive capacity, the three-point shooting could be a nice addition.

1. Kevin Love

The best possible pickup for the Warriors but also the one that’s least likely to be available. Kevin Love was a finalist for Sixth Man of the Year last season, yet he’s found himself out of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ rotation over recent weeks.

Kevin Love driving against Golden State Warriors’ Jordan Poole earlier this season. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
Kevin Love driving against Golden State Warriors’ Jordan Poole earlier this season. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

Love has still played in 41 games this season, averaging 8.5 points and shooting 35.4% from three-point range. Just a season ago he averaged 13.6 points on 39.2% from deep, also adding 7.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists.

Even a slightly diminished version of Love given age and injury would be an excellent addition to the Golden State roster. A stretch big who can snatch rebounds while also being an excellent passer — Love will have no shortage of suitors should he become available.

Next. Golden State Warriors persistent issue haunts again in loss to Lakers. dark

If he doesn’t orchestrate a buyout with the Cavaliers now, then Love could become an option for the Warriors should he be willing to accept a veteran minimum contract when a free agent during the offseason.

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