The Golden State Warriors came up short in their pursuit of star power this summer, leaving Stephen Curry with less help than the front office had hoped to provide. That doesn’t mean they’re finished making moves.
Curry is still playing elite basketball. The Warriors remain in win-now mode, even if the roster around him hasn’t matched that urgency so far.
Golden State has struck out on multiple stars, missing on Giannis Antetokounmpo at February’s trade deadline and LeBron James this offseason. Still, there’s a path to smaller upgrades without breaking up the current core. According to NBA insider Jake Fischer, the Warriors have ties to two veteran minimum-level free agents: Georges Niang and Kelly Olynyk.
(via @BleacherReport)
Why the Warriors Are Still Searching for Their Final Pieces
GettyKelly Olynyk of the San Antonio Spurs.
Golden State had plans to pursue a new co-star for Curry. Those plans fell through. The front office settled on a more modest offseason instead.
Still, there was good news. Kristaps Porzingis and Draymond Green both returned on new extensions. That gives Golden State a viable frontcourt around Curry. Rookie Yaxel Lendeborg also emerged as a real addition. He may have earned a starting role after a strong Summer League run.
The Warriors did manage to keep their existing core intact this offseason. Two open roster spots remain, though, and neither Niang nor Olynyk would meaningfully close the gap left by missing on bigger names.
Niang and Olynyk Offer Proven Frontcourt Depth
GettyWarriors have been linked to free agent Georges Niang.
Niang is 33 years old. He won’t move the needle in a major way. But he’d make life easier for Curry as another veteran shooter on the floor.
Niang averaged 12.1 points, 3.0 rebounds, 1.6 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.3 blocks in 28 games last season. He shot 44.1 percent from the field and 41.3 percent from three. At 6-foot-6 and 230 pounds, Niang could provide real frontcourt depth for a team that needs it.
If Niang isn’t available, Golden State could turn to Olynyk instead. Olynyk is another veteran power forward who can stretch the floor.
He averaged 3.2 points, 1.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.4 steals, and 0.1 blocks in 42 games last season, shooting 49.0 percent from the field. Olynyk has played for eight teams across 13 years. That experience means he knows how to adjust quickly to a new situation and a new role.
What Either Addition Would Mean for the Warriors
Either signing would be a minor addition rather than a real answer to what the Warriors are missing. With Curry, Green, and Porzingis in place, the Warriors hope to stay competitive until their next real opportunity to upgrade the roster.
Jimmy Butler’s health remains worth watching closely. His return won’t matter much if the bench can’t support him.
Gary Payton II and De’Anthony Melton have both earned their roster spots. But the Warriors still need another spark. That’s where Niang or Olynyk comes in.
Adding another scoring threat off the bench could make a real difference. Finding the right fit, though, will take patience. That’s the approach Golden State appears ready to take heading into next season.
Warriors Eye 2 Free Agents to Help Stephen Curry