Golden State Warriors’ two-way conversion remains up in the air heading to All-Star break

The Golden State Warriors have got significant contribution from both their two-way players this season, with Ty Jerome and Anthony Lamb each fighting for the team’s open roster spot as we enter the All-Star break.

Post the trade deadline, the 29-29 reigning champions now have the choice between leaving that 15th spot open and saving money, converting Jerome or Lamb to a full contract, or looking at an option in the buyout market.

The Golden State Warriors will use the All-Star break to determine what to do, if anything, with their vacant 15th roster spot.

Given the buyout options that appear available right now, odds would be on the Warriors converting Jerome or Lamb should they wish to utilize the 15th spot. Who the front office chooses is the next question though, with arguments to be made for both players.

Positionally, Golden State have a greater need for a forward like Lamb once Stephen Curry returns from a lower leg injury. However, Jerome has been impressive in the two-time MVP’s absence, playing a significant role as a backup point-guard behind Jordan Poole.

Jerome’s ability to manipulate pick-and-rolls, crab dribble into the lane and either make or be fouled on his floaters is a unique wrinkle to the Warrior offense. The 25-year-old is putting quite the season together, averaging 7.2 points and 2.9 assists on 50/40/90 shooting splits.

The fourth-year guard may have edged himself in front of Lamb, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding Curry and the newly-acquired Gary Payton II. But the Warriors aren’t going to win a championship without those two anyway, and Jerome would just be adding to an already plentiful guard rotation. He’s also largely a negative defensively, and Golden State already have one of those in Jordan Poole.

Lamb’s done little wrong — he’s shooting exactly 40% from three-point range. There’s not exactly anything else identifiable that he’s bringing to the table in a major way though, and given he’d been inactive for multiple games before Tuesday’s clash with the Clippers, he could do with reminding the front office of what he can bring with a big game.

While it’s primarily a question for this season, the long-term fit may also determine the final decision. If one of the two are to be converted to a full contract, don’t be surprised if it’s some kind of multi-year, non-guaranteed deal.