Out with the old, and in with the new. It’s a common saying. But for the Golden State Warriors, it could be more like out with the new, in with the old.
That’s because as NBA free-agency rumors begin to heat up, a familiar former Warrior has been linked to the team. Congruently, sources say that one of Golden State’s young players will be waived in short order, freeing up a roster space.
First off, the Warriors will reportedly waive center Alen Smailagic before Aug. 6. He was a project at center that just didn’t work out.
Best of luck to “Smiley,” as he’s been known in the Bay Area.
More interestingly, the Warriors will reportedly meet with free agent forward Andre Iguodala. That’s a name familiar to every Warriors fan worth their salt, to be sure. Iguodala was a major part of Golden State’s dynasty during the latter half of the last decade.
The first question regarding Iguodala is related to his age. At 37 years old, how much does he have left in the tank? He averaged just 4.4 points a game last season with the Heat, playing 21.3 minutes per game over 63 contests with five starts.
Secondly, would Iguodala sign for the veteran’s minimum? The salary-capped Warriors have a $5.9 million mid-level exception to use in free agency, but would surely rather spend that on a more able-bodied player. Golden State can dole out multiple minimum contracts, however.
Iguodala’s value would stretch beyond the box score, though, since he’s extremely close to Warriors superstars Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green. If Iguodala will sign a minimum contract, this should be a no-brainier signing. If not, however, this reunion likely wont happen. But the wheels of free agency are finally turning, in what continues to be a vital offseason for Golden State.
(Photo courtesy of TechCrunch)
Bay Area Sports Hub 