Three superior free agents the Warriors should have signed
With the contracts of Klay Thompson and Chris Paul off the books, the Golden State Warriors had financial flexibility this offseason to explore the free-agent market.
Free agency has settled since it opened June 30, but speculation remains rampant a big move by the Warriors could still be coming. Until then, however, Golden State has 14 roster positions filled with guaranteed deals (that doesn’t include second-round draft pick Quentin Post).
Let’s take a look at the Warriors’ three major free-agent signings and the superior alternatives GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. should have added instead. (Two of the players signed cheaper deals elsewhere.)
Warriors signed (via sign-and-trade): Former Minnesota Timberwolves forward Kyle Anderson to a three-year, $27 million deal with the third year non-guaranteed.
… but should have signed: New Chicago Bulls forward Jalen Smith, who also signed a three-year, $27 million deal.
In Anderson, the Warriors added a savvy, versatile veteran who brings a solid defensive presence and a high basketball IQ while providing size (6-foot-9) and length (7-foot-3 wingspan). They also get a player who soon turns 31 and is nicknamed “Slo Mo” for his lack of speed.
Anderson isn’t known for his offensive prowess, either, shooting just 22,9% from deep last season and averaging a paltry 6.4 points.
