
OAKLAND – The vast majority of players eligible for contract extensions signed during their rookie year will become restricted free agents next summer, and the group includes Harrison Barnes and Festus Ezeli of the Warriors.
Both Barnes and Ezeli rejected formal offers, according to Warriors general manager Bob Myers, which puts them among dozens of players whose value will be determined almost totally on their performance this season.
Which puts the Warriors in the position of having to monitor, at least to some degree, Barnes and Ezeli for potential deviations to their games as they approach restricted free agency.
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Though Myers was quick to say he was not particularly concerned about either player, he has seen enough NBA basketball to be on the lookout.
[POOLE: No extension, but Ezeli wants to play for Warriors whole career]
“We’ve tried to assemble a group of guys that are very selfless,” Myers said. “I don’t know that a change in character would be forthcoming with either of them. I think both of them are mature enough to continue doing what they do to help us win games. I expect the same things to happen and play the way that helps us win.”
Myers’ assessment likely is on target, given the personalities of the two individuals and the way they approach the game.
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But as a player who spent 10 years in the league and now, as a 35-year-old coach, is not far removed, Walton concedes the staff has to be on alert.
“Absolutely, 100 percent,” Walton said prior to the Warriors-Grizzlies game Monday night. “You should recognize that, and I think we do as a staff. Being a former player, I’ve dealt with it. I’ve seen it. Admitted or not, there is extra pressure when you’re a free agent. You want to play well, and sometimes that gets the better of you.
[RELATED: Ezeli will not sign extension with Warriors before deadline]
“So we know that. It’s our job to try to keep them playing the way we want them to play, and play the way that is best for our team.
“But if they get heated in a game and they don’t feel like they’re getting enough shots and they get mad – it hasn’t happened - and with those two I don’t see it happening but it does happen in the NBA a lot – you’re sympathetic to their situation and how much pressure is involved with that.”
Both players have expressed the desire to remain with the only franchise they’ve known, and one with which they won a championship.
Then, too, the tabling of negotiations has spread league-wide. Only three of the top 10 players from the 2012 draft – Anthony Davis (Pelicans), Micheal Kidd-Gilchrist (Hornets) and Damian Lillard (Trail Blazers) – have extensions lined up.
As for Barnes and Ezeli suddenly looking to do things beyond the norm, the Warriors should be safe in regard. But it’s only smart business to remain vigilant, which this franchise usually is.