Warriors Add Veteran Depth with Niang and Williams

Golden State signed point guard Brandon Williams and power forward Georges Niang to veteran minimum deals, completing their 15-man roster. Williams received a B+ grade for being the best available point guard, though his defensive limitations and three-point shooting raise fit concerns. Niang's signing was also evaluated, with the Warriors hoping his shooting and experience bolster the bench.

Williams, at 26, was the top remaining point guard on the market and brings a rare ability to attack the rim, though his 6'1" frame makes him a defensive liability and his outside shooting is a weakness. The Mavericks notably scored more with him on the floor despite their poor three-point shooting, suggesting his penetration can create offense even in cramped spacing. The Warriors also signed LJ Cryer to a two-way deal, and if Cryer outperforms Williams, the team could clear a roster spot at the trade deadline.

Niang, 33, is a career 39.9 percent three-point shooter but has posted four straight seasons of poor defensive metrics. He has played rotation minutes on many winning teams and has been durable aside from last season's foot injury. With Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody sidelined for at least half the season, the Warriors lack the wing defenders needed to hide Niang's defensive shortcomings, though his shooting could spark stagnant offensive stretches.