After a tough start, the Golden State Warriors have begun finding their footing this NBA season. They are now 27-26 and sitting in fifth place in the Western Conference, finally looking more like the defending champions.
Golden State lost a lot of veteran production this offseason and was relying on younger players to step up and fill the void. Their production has been quite inconsistent, which is a big reason why they are in the position that they currently are.
If the Warriors are going to repeat as champions, they are going to need to make some changes ahead of the deadline. While the organization was hopeful that it could rebuild and develop its young players while remaining competitive. It has proven to be too tall of a task.
The rotation could use some help in the frontcourt, which is what the Warriors should be scouring the market for. One player that could be a perfect fit for them is Kelly Olynyk of the Utah Jazz.
Olynyk has been a revelation for Utah this season, putting together arguably the best season of his career. He is averaging 11.5 points, 5.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.6 blocks in 28.1 minutes per game with the Jazz. His shooting numbers have been excellent as he is making 48.8 percent overall from the field. 40.04 percent from 3-point range and 83.2 percent from the foul line.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kelly Olynyk, Utah Jazz & Golden State Warriors Updates
That combination of 3-point shooting and passing is something that Golden State is currently lacking in the frontcourt. Olynyk can essentially provide everything that the current Warriors’ big men do but all in one package.
Adding him to the roster would provide Kerr with a versatile piece that can fill numerous roles. Olynyk also has playoff experience, so that isn’t something that should phase him as the franchise has championship aspirations.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kelly Olynyk, Utah Jazz & Golden State Warriors Updates
Acquiring Kelly Olynyk also shouldn’t cost the Warriors as much as other centers on the market, such as Jakob Poeltl. The final season on his contract is non-guaranteed as well. So Golden State could move on from him in the offseason should the need arise. But, his salary should it be fully guaranteed for the 2023-24 season is a manageable $12,195,122.
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