NBA Free Agency: Golden State Warriors get major steal in securing young guard
Guard Lester Quinones has agreed to return to the Golden State Warriors on a two-way deal, according to the Athletic’s Shams Charania. It’s a major steal for the franchise after an impressive Summer League had many suggesting the 22-year-old may be worthy of a place on the main roster.
Quinones averaged 21.9 PPG, 4.4 APG, and 4.1 RPG during Summer League. It came after a stellar season in the G League where he averaged 20.2 PPG, 6.2 RPG, and 4 APG, earning him the G League’s Most Improved Player award.
Despite signing a two-way contract with the Golden State Warriors, Lester Quinones will have a legitimate chance to compete for a full-time roster spot during training camp.
The excitement around Quinones has gained traction this summer within the Warriors fan base. Many people see some resemblance of former Golden State guard Jordan Poole in Quinones’ game. Warriors summer league coach Jacob Rubin recently mentioned the similarities between Quinones and Poole in in an interview, including how Poole helped Quinones with his work ethic.
There were rumblings within the Warriors organization that they strongly believe in Lester Quinones and that he can contribute some of the things Poole gave off the bench, obviously at a much lower price.
I was told the organization has a strong belief in Lester Quinones. And that there was a reason he around thru the end of the season.
— Jason Dumas (@JDumasReports) June 22, 2023
This Poole move certainly opens up an opportunity for him to he can be a rotational piece next season. There are minutes to be had.
While Quinones has been impressive this summer and there are clear similarities to Poole, some easily forget what Poole did in the regular season for the Dubs — playing in all 82 games and averaging 20 PPG.
There may be opportunities for Quinones in games where an older vet doesn’t play, particularly when it’s unrealistic to think Chris Paul, Stephen Curry, and Klay Thompson will play in every game. Those rest nights and injuries throughout a long season are where Quinones can step in and shine – much like Ty Jerome did last year.
Golden State Warriors should be wary of signing newly-available free agent. dark. Next
The Warriors will likely enter training camp with two open roster spots, so keep an eye open for Quinones and others competing for a spot on that coveted 15-man roster.