The Golden State Warriors are going to need to get some lucky breaks to compete in the Western Conference. Even if they land their ideal free agent targets after the Jonathan Kuminga drama has played out, it still might not be enough. That’s why the Warriors need to closely monitor the NBA buyout market.
The Los Angeles Lakers have already benefited immensely from their buyout signings. With limited cap space, they were able to sign DeAndre Ayton and Marcus Smart to team-friendly contracts.
The Warriors would be smart to try the same with the next big name on the buyout market.
The most recent NBA rumor is that Khris Middleton could be that next big name.
Evan Sidery reported Thursday that Middleton is a player to watch among the NBA’s contenders.
“Multiple contending teams are monitoring Khris Middleton’s future with the Wizards.
On a $33.3 million expiring contract, plus an extensive injury history, teams are not willing to offer notable compensation in a trade. Middleton is a strong buyout candidate at some point.”
The Warriors should be one of the teams that watch Middleton’s status closely. Middleton is a champion and a former All-Star with a track record of elite scoring and solid defense. Middleton is a career 38.7% three-point shooter.
Middleton has not been healthy for a few seasons now. He hasn’t played more than 55 games since the 2021-22 season. Still, the upside of Middleton is hard to deny.
The Warriors could use a healthy Middleton on both sides of the court. Whether that player still exists is another story. Every contender will be monitoring Middleton’s health and availability during the beginning of the season with the Wizards.
Still, if Middleton does get bought out, the Warriors need to consider trying to sign him. They would likely be able to get a former star on a discounted contract, the exact type of pickup they need to get lucky with.
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If Middleton stays healthy, it would be a home run signing for the Warriors. If he gets hurt again, they likely won’t have spent much on him. A Middleton-Warriors signing could be a no-lose situation.
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