Golden State Warriors Must Fill Roster Spot Before Thursday Deadline

The Golden State Warriors are under increasing pressure to fill a vacant roster spot before Thursday’s NBA deadline. Currently, the team has only 12 players under standard contracts, which falls below the league requirement of 14 players. If the Warriors fail to sign an additional player, they could face financial penalties and roster complications moving forward.

The Impact of the Jimmy Butler Trade

The recent blockbuster trade for Jimmy Butler significantly altered the Warriors’ roster. In acquiring the All-Star forward, the team had to part ways with Lindy Waters, Dennis Schroder, Kyle Anderson, and Andrew Wiggins—leaving them with three open roster spots.

Reports indicate that Kevin Knox has agreed to a 10-day contract, but the team has yet to make the deal official. Even if Knox is signed, one more roster spot must be filled to meet the NBA’s requirements.

Financial Risks of Non-Compliance

If the Warriors fail to meet the league-mandated 14-player minimum, they risk a salary cap hold—which could make future signings more complicated. The team is also slightly below the first hard cap, meaning they have limited financial flexibility.

With 113 days remaining in the season, the Warriors must decide whether to commit to long-term contracts or utilize short-term 10-day deals to maintain flexibility.

Potential Roster Additions

The Warriors have several options to address their roster vacancy. The team may consider signing two players on 10-day contracts, allowing for evaluations before making a long-term commitment. Some potential candidates include:

• Kevin Knox – A G-League prospect who has struggled in the past but could provide depth.
• Mo Bamba – A defensive big man with shot-blocking ability and three-point range.
• Juan Toscano-Anderson – A former Warriors role player who brings defensive versatility.
• O’Shea Brissett – A high-energy forward who can contribute on both ends.
• Jared Culver – A former lottery pick looking to revive his career.

The Warriors’ Likely Approach

The most probable scenario is that the Warriors sign two players on 10-day contracts, allowing the team to evaluate potential fits without long-term financial commitment. This short-term approach would give them flexibility while ensuring compliance with NBA roster regulations.

With the deadline fast approaching, the Warriors must act quickly to secure their roster and strengthen their playoff push.