Warriors predicted to sign $15M former first-rounder after waived by 76ers for Lebron James

The Golden State Warriors have had a less-than-stellar offseason, which is understandable given their limited financial flexibility. Golden State still has a superstar in Stephen Curry, but the organization has struggled to build enough around him in recent seasons.

Throughout the summer, the Warriors have focused on making smaller moves to fill out the roster. On Saturday, Golden State brought back NBA champion Gary Payton II on a new contract.

“Free agent Gary Payton II has agreed on a one-year, $3.9 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors, sources tell ESPN. Payton returns to the Warriors for his seventh year in the Bay Area -- and his 11th NBA season,” ESPN’s Shams Charania wrote.

Payton II’s return continued the Warriors’ offseason trend of bringing back familiar faces from last season’s roster. Golden State has prioritized players who understand the system and have enjoyed their time playing in the Bay Area.

“The Warriors are officially running it back despite missing the playoffs last season. Golden State re-signed Draymond Green, Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II this summer,” NBA writer Jake Weinbach posted.

Golden State still has a few roster spots available and could continue making smaller additions before the season begins. The Warriors could also look to add a new face, with Sports Illustrated’s Joey Akeley believing former first-round pick Dalen Terry could be an intriguing option.

“The 76ers just waived Terry to help make room for LeBron James and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. That gives the Warriors an opportunity to take a flier on a 24-year-old wing with size (6'6") and athleticism. If the Dubs want to fill out the roster with a more experienced wing than Lajae Jones, Terry is a decent option,” Akeley wrote.

Terry is a young player looking for an opportunity, and Golden State could provide him with the chance to prove himself. He found himself on the outside looking in after Philadelphia needed roster space to add James and Caldwell-Pope.

Terry has earned $15 million throughout his young NBA career. The Warriors are simply looking to add depth, and taking a chance on a young player with something to prove could be the right move for Golden State.

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