Golden State Warriors: 3 best forwards still available in free agency
From a run, to a walk, to a standstill. That’s how NBA free agency has played out over the last five weeks as activity across the league comes to practically a halt. It’s now a wait-and-see game for a number of teams, including the Golden State Warriors who remain with two open roster spots.
There’s still some worthy talent that remains available in the free agent market, particularly among the frontcourt where a couple of players have been surprisingly left without deals.
The Golden State Warriors may still look to add forward depth with one of their vacant roster spots or two-way contracts.
Golden State solidified their frontcourt by re-signing starting power-forward and future hall-of-famer Draymond Green to a four-year, $100 million contract to kick off free agency. They also signed Dario Saric a week later, with the offensively versatile Croatian sure to play minutes at the four and the five for Steve Kerr next season.
Beyond that the Warriors could probably do with some insurance at both forward positions, although not with the same priority as finding a genuine backup center for starting big man Kevon Looney.
It is a difficult needle for Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the Warrior front office to thread – while they don’t want to leave themselves short, both literally and figuratively, they’re also well aware of opening up opportunity for third-year forward Jonathan Kuminga.
Kuminga presents as the wildcard to Golden State’s season – someone who’s talent and potential impact could demand in excess of 25 minutes per game, or who’s inexperience and fit issues could see him depart the franchise within 12 months. If that latter were to occur or inevitable injuries happen, there’s little behind Kuminga in terms of forwards with size and athleticism.
The Warriors have seemingly turned their back on a few of their own forwards from last season — JaMychal Green and Anthony Lamb remain as unrestricted free agents, while Andre Iguodala is still expected to retire despite no formal indication.
Let’s have a look at the three best forwards left on the free agent market: