Golden State is reportedly eyeing DeMar DeRozan as a fallback if LeBron James decides to sign somewhere else, but honestly, that move just screams "bad news" for a squad that's already stuck in average territory. We're talking about a team that's undoubtedly one of the most average in the entire NBA right now, and nobody's really gonna argue with that. The absolute last thing they need to do is make a splashy move just to say they did something, especially if it means bringing in an aging player who isn't LeBron.
Why DeMar DeRozan Isn't The Answer
Let's talk about the specific name popping up: DeMar DeRozan. Reports are swirling that Golden State will definitely show interest if James goes off the board. Sean Deveney even wrote that DeRozan is gonna be "coveted once James comes off the board," and he's not wrong, with Miami also listed as an option. What's wild is Deveney also suggests the Warriors might even try to sign DeRozan *even if* they land James. Like, what? The team has 11 players signed and sits with about $35 million left under the second apron. That cap space could include two veteran deals and, potentially, the return of Draymond Green. So yeah, they've got some wiggle room, but for *this*?A Championship Dream Killer
Now, don't get me wrong, DeRozan is still a decent player at this stage of his career, and yeah, he's a future Hall of Famer, no doubt. But for the Warriors? He is absolutely not the perfect option. This team, frankly, isn't good enough to win a championship with him leading the charge. They have absolutely no use for him on the roster if their goal is to contend. It feels like a move just to make noise, not a move to actually get better. It's frustrating to watch a team with potential fumble away critical offseason decisions by settling for an imperfect fit. So, Golden State needs to make some tough calls real soon. Are they gonna go after a player who actually moves the needle, or are they gonna settle for a "decent" option that ultimately leaves them stuck in NBA purgatory? The next few days could really shape whether they sink or swim beyond just being "average." You gotta wonder, will they chase the real game-changer, or will they waste that $35 million on a move that everyone can see coming a mile away will miss the mark?This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.