Coming off an NBA championship, the Golden State Warriors had only one thing on their mind when entering the offseason: retain Draymond Green by shredding salary.
In order to trim salary, they had to trade one of their longest tenured players in David Lee. A David Lee trade was predictable since the 10-year veteran had a $15.4 million contract that was eating up Golden State’s pay roll.
The Warriors completed a trade with the Boston Celtics, acquiring Gerald Wallace in exchange for Lee. Still, Wallace’s $10.1 million deal was overwhelming and many believed the Warriors would waive him upon finalizing the trade. But the Warriors did something better.
They most recently shipped Wallace to the Philadelphia 76ers for Jason Thompson, shredding more salary and gaining a serviceable player. Thompson does not possess the same skillset of Lee, but he absolutely is a sufficient replacement.
The 6-foot-11 power forward hasn’t had the NBA career many believed he would have, but he is an adequate rebounder and high energy player. Thompson has been a starter for most of his career, but he will play off the bench for the Warriors, a role that may suit him better.
All this made it easier for Golden State to re-sign Draymond Green, who took a five-year deal worth $85 million. Green is the heart and soul of the team, as Steve Kerr has reiterated that fact many times. He had a breakout season last year and tremendously helped the Warriors during their title run.
Green’s overall defense is one of the best in the league, and his improved outside shooting earned him the starting power forward role last season. Keeping him was a no brainer and being able to shave Lee’s contract off the books in the process while attaining a decent replacement have been great moves.
The last piece added to the Warriors roster this summer was 2015 30th overall pick Kevon Looney. Considering he was the final pick of the first round, the Warriors made a terrific selection. Looney may not be able to find time in a crowded frontcourt, but he could step in and give quality minutes if needed.
The Warriors didn’t use the offseason to seek more talent. The theme of their free agency was to re-sign Draymond Green, and they achieved that goal by making marvelous trades to shred salary.
With that being said, it’s been a rather successful summer for the defending championships. They did everything they planned to do and will without question be back to defend their title.
Off-Season Grade: B