[new_royalslider id=”41″]
Compared to the last couple of years, this off-season was somewhat of a disappointment for the Golden State Warriors and their fans. They were expected to make a big move this summer, but nothing ever materialized. Instead, they’ve made some key additions to bolster their bench and while they weren’t the flashy moves most were expecting, the Warriors are entering the 2014-15 season with a more balanced attack.
The Warriors need some depth and that has been a priority this off-season. Before the start of the FIBA World Cup of Basketball, the Warriors were able to make another key acquisition that will give them the depth they desire. According to Marc Stein of ESPN.com, the Warriors and Leandro Barbosa have agreed to a one year deal:
Brazil guard Leandro Barbosa has reached an agreement to sign with the Golden State Warriors for the upcoming season, ESPN.com has learned.
After Barbosa received initial interest from the Miami Heat, Golden State has secured a commitment from the 31-year-old on a one-year deal at the veteran minimum, according to NBA front-office sources.
Barbosa will be entering his 12th season in the NBA and made a name for himself with the Phoenix Suns during the Steve Nash era. The 31-year-old shooting guard has bounced around the NBA since leaving Phoenix four years ago, but could rejuvenate his career with the Warriors. In his prime Barbosa averaged about 18 points per game and while he won’t give the Warriors that type of production, he could be an offensive spark coming off the bench the Warriors lack. The deal is for the veteran minimum, which makes the deal low risk, but more importantly the Warriors get the shooting guard depth they needed.
Barbosa will be representing Brazil in the FIBA World Cup, which will give Warriors an opportunity to see what he can bring to the table. Brazil is considered one of the stronger teams in the tournament with plenty of NBA talent. Tiago Splitter, Nene, and Anderson Varejao are all part of the Brazilian squad and they are hopeful they can contend for the gold medal.
Great, now add Puerto Rico’s stretch four-five: SANCHEZ