The Warriors likely checked in on a number of free agents they could have signed with the mid-level exception worth close to $6 million, but more than a week into the free agency period, it remains unutilized.
Warriors general manager Bob Myers, in speaking to 95.7 The Game on Thursday, explained why the team isn't likely to use the MLE on their final roster spot.
"I don't think we use it. I think we tried, we put it out there for some players we thought were difference-makers. But it's not wise, and I would almost protect Joe from himself if he said go spend it on anyone. It does cost us about $25 million to spend the $5 million, which again I laugh, I know listeners or fans don't care about that part, but we have to," Myers said on "Damon, Ratto and Kolsky."
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"We have to be smart about it, we've got it in a buyout, I do think every year there's players that are bought out, if you need to spend a little more money in that market, we have it for that. But at this point Damon, I don't foresee us using it as it looks right now."
The Warriors have added forwards Andre Iguodala, Otto Porter Jr. and Nemanja Bjelica on veteran's minimum contracts, in addition to the two lottery picks added in the 2021 NBA Draft, Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody.
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One roster spot remains for the regular season, but the Warriors could end up using that spot on a player that impresses in training camp. As Myers indicated, the team also could save the spot and wait until midseason, when talented veterans are bought out and become free agents.
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With the expected return of a healthy Klay Thompson at some point this season, the Warriors hope to be contenders for a championship.
Myers told fans to "stay tuned" regarding the MLE, but don't be surprised if it either goes unused or the roster spot is saved for a skilled veteran who gets bought out by a struggling team midseason.