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Feisty Guard hints at wish to join Golden State Warriors

By Peter O'Keefe

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 18: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors controls the ball as LeBron James #6 and Patrick Beverley #21 of the Los Angeles Lakers defend during the 1st half of the game 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 controls the ball as LeBron James #6 and Patrick Beverley #21 of the Los Angeles Lakers defend during the 1st half of the game 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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Veteran point-guard Patrick Beverley is on the lookout for a new team once again, with the 34-year-old hinting at a wish to join the reigning champion Golden State Warriors.

After 45 games with the Los Angeles Lakers this season, Beverly was traded to the Orlando Magic in exchange for Mo Bamba last week. After orchestrating a buyout, he’s now on the search for a fifth team in his 11 season career.

Patrick Beverley may have interest in joining the Golden State Warriors, but would the franchise reciprocate interest in the defensive-minded guard?

Beverley averaged 6.4 points, 3.1 rebounds and 2.6 assists with the Lakers across 26.9 minutes per game. It follows a 2021-22 season in which he played a crucial role in the Minnesota Timberwolves’ return to the postseason, averaging 9.2 points, 4.1 rebounds and 4.6 assists. He was traded to the Utah Jazz as part of the massive Rudy Gobert deal during the offseason, before immediately being moved to the Lakers.

In response to a Twitter user’s plea to have him join the Warriors, Beverley responded, “Winning at the highest level. A players dream”.

The Warriors may have had interest in Beverley if not for the acquisition of Gary Payton II in the final hour before the trade deadline. With Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Jordan Poole, Donte DiVincenzo and Payton, it makes little sense for Golden State to add to their guard rotation.

Payton’s ongoing abdominal injury does complicate matters a little, and Beverley could be seen as worthy insurance if the franchise isn’t sure of his health for the remainder of the season. Beverley has made a career out of being a feisty, high-intense perimeter defender, having been named to All-Defensive teams on three occasions.

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The All-Star break now gives Golden State, and other teams, the chance to look at what’s on offer in the buyout market. While it’s unlikely to be used on Beverley, the Warriors do have a vacant roster spot that can be used on a player if they deem worthwhile.

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