The Golden State Warriors continue to be the only NBA team yet to sign a veteran free agent this offseason as they face uncertainty surrounding restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. With just nine players currently under contract by mid-August, Golden State’s roster maneuvering remains cautious in a market featuring multiple unsigned high-profile players, including former No. 1 overall pick Ben Simmons.
Salary cap expert Eric Pincus of Bleacher Report highlighted Simmons as a possible fit to serve as a Draymond Green backup option given his defensive and playmaking strengths. This consideration comes as the Warriors seek to bolster their depth and maintain competitive status in the Western Conference alongside stars like Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler.
Similarities and Differences Between Simmons and Draymond Green
Ben Simmons presents intriguing parallels to Draymond Green in terms of role and skill set. Both players have earned recognition less for scoring and more for their defensive contributions and ability to facilitate teammates. However, Pincus pointed out a key distinction: Draymond is known for his willingness to attempt perimeter shots regardless of outcome, while Simmons has struggled considerably with outside shooting during his NBA tenure.
The path for Simmons has been challenging since his departure from the Philadelphia 76ers. Standing 6-foot-10 and a three-time All-Star, he has dealt with mental health struggles and ongoing back issues. His recent seasons with the Brooklyn Nets and Los Angeles Clippers have been disappointing, characterized by limited productivity and inconsistent playing time.
Last season with Brooklyn, Simmons averaged 6.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 6.9 assists over 33 games. When he transitioned to the Clippers, his production dipped further, posting career lows of 2.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists in 17 games. Despite this, his size combined with playmaking remains a possible solution to Golden State’s defensive and rebounding needs.
Potential for a Cost-Effective Addition to the Warriors’ Roster
Ben Simmons is expected to join the market as a minimum-contract player for the upcoming season, making him a low-cost option for the Warriors to consider. Analyst Brett Siegel from ClutchPoints highlighted that Simmons’ skill set could complement Golden State’s lineup, particularly with shooters like Curry leading the offense.
As for Simmons, he is expected to be a minimum-contract player during the 2025-26 season. Throughout his career, the former first-overall pick has thrived in systems where there are viable, reliable shooters around him. After being a rumored Warriors target in the past, Simmons could give Golden State everything they need in terms of height, rebounding, and playmaking outside of Steph,
Siegel wrote on July 12.
The Warriors must prioritize resolving Kuminga’s contract situation before making significant additions. Pincus noted that retaining Kuminga would increase the team’s payroll substantially, whereas losing him could free up roster spots necessary to pursue other free agents like Simmons.
If the team retains the restricted free agent, the payroll will be significantly higher than if he leaves outright (though a sign-and-trade could also increase salary). The team is believed to have deals in place with Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II, but first must let the Kuminga saga play out,
Pincus wrote.
Without Kuminga, Golden State needs to fill 2-3 roster spots.
General Manager Details Warriors’ Targeted Offseason Improvements
Golden State’s general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. shared insight into the team’s offseason priorities, emphasizing a focus on adding shooting and defensive capabilities to both frontcourt and backcourt positions. Dunleavy stressed the importance of players who can contribute offensively through shooting, passing, and dribbling while also shoring up areas of need.
We feel like we have a group going forward that’s going to be pretty good. What do we need to add? I think from that standpoint, we want to look to the frontcourt to add some shooting, in the backcourt some defense,
Dunleavy told ESPN’s Katie George in July.
Offensively, guys that can shoot, pass and dribble. There’s tons of needs, but I think we’ve zeroed in on some areas we can address.
With his All-Defensive First Team accolades and playmaking talents, Ben Simmons could fill a versatile role as a backup to Draymond Green, particularly helping Golden State improve defense and rebounding depth while the team awaits clearer direction on Kuminga’s future. The Warriors remain patient in navigating the free-agent market, aiming for a strategic approach that preserves their competitiveness in coming seasons.