5. Javale McGee
McGee himself is far from an interesting player at this point of his career. He’s 35-years-old and his combination of rim protection on defense and lob threat on offense has become a staple most fans are accustomed to.
Yet from a Warrior perspective, McGee’s form this season could take on a little more intrigue. After he was stretched-and-waived by the Dallas Mavericks a few weeks ago, the seven-footer ultimately chose to sign with the Sacramento Kings as a free agent.
As soon as he had become available, there were suggestions of a potential reunion with the Warriors where McGee won two NBA champions with the franchise in 2017 and 2018. He was initially viewed as someone who could help solidify the center rotation and fill Golden State’s vacant 14th roster spot.
He instead went to the pacific rival Kings, in doing so displacing Nerlens Noel and Neemias Queta who were each subsequently waived by the franchise given their logjam at the center position.
Surely McGee will face some pressure to perform as a result, although he’ll still be behind All-Star Domantas Sabonis and presumably incumbent backup Alex Len when the season tips off next month.
More than that though, Warrior fans may be interested to see what they actually missed on. Reports emerged that Golden State were pursuing the 15-year veteran before his move to the Kings. Will McGee prove a big miss for the Warriors, or will they be fortunate that he chose elsewhere?