With two roster spots and a pair of two-way contracts still available, there’s no secret that the Golden State Warriors need to address their big man stocks behind starting center Kevon Looney.
While much speculation has centered around which free agent veterans the front office may be able to target, there remains the possibility that the Warriors choose to entertain a younger prospect.
Per a recent report, former first-round pick Harry Giles III is set to work out for the Golden State Warriors in the coming days.
According to SNY’s Ian Begley, former Sacramento Kings and Portland Trail Blazers’ big Harry Giles III will work out for Golden State next week. The 25-year-old is still looking for his spot back in the league, having not played in the NBA since his lone season with the Trail Blazers in 2020-21.
Giles was actually drafted by Portland with the 20th overall pick in 2017, before his rights were traded to the Kings on draft night. He played two seasons with Sacramento, both of which were interrupted through injury and stints in the G League.
Giles has played in 142 NBA games over his three seasons, averaging 5.6 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.2 assists in 12.9 minutes per game. Initially seen as a power-forward coming into the league, a lack of three-point shooting threat has seen him primarily as a five-man during those three seasons (69% according to Basketball Reference).
The intriguing element with Giles is the fact he’s eligible for a two-way contract. Taking a risk on such an unproven young player would be reckless for a Warrior team in championship contention, yet on a two-way deal it may be worth the risk.
New NBA laws stipulate teams can have up to three two-way contracted players, potentially allowing someone like Giles to gain an opportunity. Golden State have already got talented guard Lester Quinones signed to a two-way deal heading into next season.
As Begley points out, other teams including the Orlando Magic and Brooklyn Nets also seemingly hold some interest in the 6’11” big man. If Giles were to have a future with the Warriors, he’ll likely have to earn a training camp deal and win his way to a spot during preseason.