The Golden State Warriors had a solid offseason, bringing in De’Anthony Melton, Kyle Anderson, and Buddy Hield to compensate for the departure of experienced trio Klay Thompson, Chris Paul, and Dario Saric.
Melton, Anderson, and Hield are all quality role players who will contribute to the Warriors’ rotation, but there is still a dismal outlook for the Warriors if they do not complete the suite of moves by adding a genuine, difference-making second star.
The Golden State Warriors’ pursuit for a second offensive talent continues after missing out on nine-time All-talent Paul George prior to free agency.
Fortunately, the Warriors appear to grasp this necessity, as seen by their pursuit of current Philadelphia 76ers forward Paul George and their ongoing pursuit of 2023 All-Star Lauri Markkanen.
It is unknown whether the Utah Jazz will eventually be prepared to go with Markkanen, but Golden State is willing to find out as they wait until August 6, when the Finnish forward becomes extension eligible.
But if Markkanen signs an agreement that renders him untradeable for six months, where will the Warriors go? Anthony Slater of The Athletic reported on Tuesday that the front staff would be content to open next season with their existing roster, then re-evaluate as things progress.
That’s a dangerous strategy considering the lack of star power beyond Stephen Curry. The alternative is to continue exploring the market for a star-caliber player, with Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine likely to stay available at a low cost compared to his potential productivity.
Golden State reportedly declined LaVine’s offer for Andrew Wiggins and Chris Paul, instead opting to renounce the latter’s $30 million non-guaranteed contract before free agency. The organization might yet rekindle interest in the two-time All-Star, as Bleacher Report’s Greg Swartz said in a potential three-team deal. Let’s look at the transaction and see if it’s worthwhile from a Warrior standpoint.
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