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Free Agency: ‘Impressive’ veteran has stranglehold on Golden State Warriors 14th roster spot

By Peter O'Keefe

SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 07: Rudy Gay #33 of the Golden State Warriors shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 07, 2023 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 07: Rudy Gay #33 of the Golden State Warriors shoots the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center on October 07, 2023 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 forward Rudy Gay continues to strengthen in favoritism for the Golden State Warriors 14th roster spot, with the 37-year-old labelled as ‘impressive’ by head coach Steve Kerr.

Looking to extend his NBA career into an 18th season, Gay signed a training camp deal with the Warriors in the hopes of winning the roster spot over a number of younger prospects.

Given the Golden State Warriors roster needs, Rudy Gay appears to have a stranglehold on the franchise’s vacant roster spot.

Gay may have played less than seven minutes in Golden State’s preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday, but his veteran experience and savviness was on display among a young rotation in the second-half.

Speaking to Andscape’s Marc J. Spears, Gay appears confident in his ability to contribute to the Warriors aspirations for another NBA championship.

"“I know I still got a lot to give and I can help a team in this situation. I feel like it’s a pretty good situation,” Gay said."

Rudy Gay of the Golden State Warriors poses for a picture during the Warriors’ media day on October 02, 2023. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Rudy Gay of the Golden State Warriors poses for a picture during the Warriors’ media day on October 02, 2023. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) /

When asked by Spears, Kerr made a point of stating that “there have been no promises,” but also added that Gay’s had a really good first few days of camp.” The 8th overall pick in 2006, Gay is one of five players currently on training camp deals.

Spears himself practically described Gay when looking at what the franchise is targeting, with Golden State expected to lock in their 14th spot after an additional four preseason games that conclude against the San Antonio Spurs next Friday 20th.

"“The Warriors appear to be seeking a 14th man who is a veteran, has a great locker room presence and can help at a moment’s notice when called upon,” Spears wrote."

Seeking a veteran player almost assuredly rules out three of Golden State’s training camp invitees — Kendric Davis, Donovan Williams and Javan Johnson. The same can be said for the franchise’s current two-way contracted players — Lester Quinones, Usman Garuba and Jerome Robinson.

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That leaves Gay and 32-year-old wing Rodney McGruder, with the latter at a disadvantage given he entered concussion protocols prior to the preseason opener against the Lakers.

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