The Golden State Warriors entered the offseason with the hopes of signing LeBron James.
But, as with their attempts to trade for Kevin Durant and Giannis Antetokounmpo, they couldn’t get it done.
Stephen Curry remains loyal to the organization, but Mike Dunleavy Jr.’s consistent failures since taking over as general manager have prompted speculation about the superstar’s future with the team.
However, with not many big names still available in free agency, the Warriors can only make marginal moves.
The Warriors want Georges Niang and Kelly Olynyk
Considering that, Dunleavy and company have pivoted toward lesser names, with Bleacher Report insider Jake Fischer revealing that they’re keeping close tabs on Georges Niang and Kelly Olynyk.
Of course, this is vastly underwhelming, given what they initially hoped to get, but that doesn’t mean these wouldn’t be solid moves.
Olynyk probably can’t give them much at this point in his career, but he can be a lite version of Kristaps Porzingis if (when) he misses time, bringing some rebounding and floor-spacing at the four or five.
As for Niang, he’s a proven 3-and-D wing who looks tailor-made for Steve Kerr’s run-and-gun offense and switch-heavy defense.
Neither of these guys will move the needle in terms of starting or playing big minutes, but they’re both proven veterans with extensive postseason experience, and they can both bring instant offense off the bench.
Whether that will be enough to stay competitive remains to be seen, but the Warriors have yet to add a single outside free agent, and they can’t afford to roll it back with the same roster after another disappointing season.