Heading into the 2026 NBA free agency period, the Golden State Warriors have a $3.45 million question looming about De’Anthony Melton.
A recent contract projection for the veteran guard suggests the Warriors don’t have to worry about that amount. They’ll have to worry about a number that’s higher.
De’Anthony Melton Projected To Opt Out Of Warriors Deal
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 11: De’Anthony Melton #8 of the Golden State Warriors in action against the Sacramento Kings during their preseason game at Chase Center on October 11, 2024 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)
By June 29, Melton has to decide whether he’s going to accept or decline his player option.
Last summer, Melton signed a two-year deal, which was worth $6.5 million, with the Warriors. The offer came after Melton recovered from a season-ending setback.
According to Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, the Warriors “should be ready” for Melton to decline that option.
GettyWASHINGTON, DC – MARCH 16: Kristaps Porzingis #7 and De’anthony Melton #8 of the Golden State Warriors celebrate in the first quarter against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on March 16, 2026 in Washington, DC. 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 Greg Fiume/Getty Images)
“Most teams won’t want Melton orchestrating at a high volume, but it’s a clear plus that he can handle that job when necessary. He’s more than qualified as a second-side attacker or supporting playmaker,” Hughes wrote.
“Golden State should be ready for Melton to decline his $3.5 million player option for next season. Even with his durability concerns, plenty of teams should be interested at roughly double that number.”
De’Anthony Melton Gets A Favorable Projection
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 02: De’anthony Melton #8 of the Golden State Warriors dribbles the ball against the LA Clippers at Chase Center on March 02, 2026 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)
After a two-year run with the Philadelphia 76ers, the Warriors offered up $12.8 million for one year of Melton’s services. He played in just six games.
The Warriors did the wise thing and brought Melton back for a similar role, but got him on the cheapest deal possible. The bet for Melton will certainly pay off.
In 49 games, the veteran guard shot 40.7% from the field, producing 12.3 points per game. He came down with 3.2 rebounds per game and dished out 2.6 assists per game. He also came up with 1.6 steals per game.
Nearly $7.0 million in salary for Melton seems reasonable at this stage of his career. While durability is a legitimate concern, Melton is a valuable role player with eight years of experience. The Warriors are likely to keep Melton on the radar, but he might get them priced out in free agency if he opts out.