Warriors Buying Low on Former Lottery Pick Marquese Chriss is a Sneaky Smart Move
By Jerry Trotta
The Golden State Warriors might look almost entirely different in 2019-20, but their front office's blueprint is the same one that jump-started their dynasty a handful of years ago-- quietly, keenly rounding out the team's roster man for man.
Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes reported on Tuesday that Dubs have signed 2016's No. 8 overall pick, Marquese Chriss, to a one-year contract.
Free agent forward Marquese Chriss — 8th pick in 2016 NBA Draft — has reached an agreement on a one-year deal with the Golden State Warriors, league sources tell Yahoo Sports.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) September 24, 2019
Chriss has struggled to make a name for himself in the NBA, bouncing from the Suns to the Rockets to the Cavaliers across three seasons. He does not, however, suffer from a lack of talent. The one-and-done Washington product was named to the league's All-Rookie Second Team in 2016-17 with Phoenix, averaging 9.7 points and 4.3 rebounds while shooting 45% from the floor.
Because of hard cap restrictions, the contract for Marquese Chriss in GSW has no salary protection. However, landing a roster spot one week from camp gives the forward an open audition for all 30 teams. No downside in taking a camp deal.
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) September 24, 2019
Since then, he hasn't quite lived up to the hype, but which NBA organization is known to get the best out of players not previously acclaimed by pundits around the Association? It's Golden State. Look no further than Kevon Looney, Jordan Bell, Quinn Cook, and Alfonzo McKinnie, among others, in recent seasons.
Not to mention that Chriss is just 22 years old and brings explosive athleticism befitting a stretch big man. There is still PLENTY of room and time left for him to adapt and grow. Don't be surprised if the young power forward makes the Warriors' final roster and breaks his way into the rotation.