Warriors Bringing In Several Veteran Free Agents For Workouts

The Golden State Warriors have one (maybe two) roster spots open heading into training camp later this month; according to a report from Shams Charania of The Athletic, they'll likely choose whether to fill those spots from amongst a group of NBA veteran free agents that will be coming in for workouts/tryouts this week.

The names involved should be familiar to most NBA fans:

  • Ben McLemore
  • Elfrid Payton
  • Rondae Hollis-Jefferson
  • Kenneth Faried
Yes, that Kenneth Faried, who's been out of the league since 2019. Nicknamed 'Manimal' because of his ferocity in fighting for the ball on every possession, Faried played eight years in the NBA, seven with the Denver Nuggets. He averaged 11.4 points and 8.1 rebounds per game in 24 minutes over his career. He's played in China and Russia since last donning an NBA uniform. 

McLemore is a 9-year veteran, having played with 5 different teams, and spent last season with the Portland Trail Blazers, averaging 10.2 points in 20 minutes per game. 

Payton has been in the league 7 years, though last season in Phoenix was his first time without a regular role in the rotation. He previously played with the New York Knicks, Orlando Magic and New Orleans Pelicans. 

Hollis-Jefferson, like Faried, is known for his aggressive, hounding style of play. He last appeared in the NBA in 2021 for the Portland Trail Blazers. 

The Warriors will have only one roster spot open if 38-year-old Andre Iguodala decides to accept his open invitation, and becomes the 14th player in camp.
If the 18-year veteran chooses retirement, Steve Kerr and Co. would have two open spots, if they so choose to fill them. It's also possible, according to Shams, that the Warriors would leave the last spot open entering the season, saving some tax penalties on what is already the highest luxury tax bill in the NBA. 

Photos: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports, Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports