The Golden State Warriors have officially filled a vacant two-way player position by signing Malevy Leons, a 6-foot-9 forward previously affiliated with the Oklahoma City Thunder. This change comes after the team waived Alex Toohey, a second-round draft pick from Australia, due to ongoing health issues linked to a left knee injury. Toohey, selected 52nd overall, had limited involvement, playing only two games with the G League Santa Cruz Warriors and none in the NBA.
Leons, 26, brings a wealth of experience after growing up in the Netherlands before moving to the United States in 2020. Following a stint at junior college in Missouri, he transferred to Bradley University in the Missouri Valley Conference, where he made a significant impact over three seasons. Notably, he was named the conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in both 2023 and 2024, showcasing his defensive skills.
Since joining the Thunder as an undrafted rookie, Leons has distinguished himself with impressive performance stats, averaging 14.8 points and 7.6 rebounds per game with the OKC Blue. His shooting efficiency is remarkable, hitting 50.8% from the field and 43.8% from three-point range, along with contributing 2.9 stocks— a combined measure of steals and blocks—per game.
The Warriors had initially begun the season with three two-way players: Pat Spencer, Jackson Rowe, and Toohey. Recently, they waived Rowe to free up a spot for LJ Cryer, a sharp-shooting point guard who has been excelling in Santa Cruz. With Leons now on board, the Warriors continue to revamp their two-way roster, aiming to strengthen their depth as the season progresses.
Pat Spencer has emerged as a noteworthy contributor this season, remaining active in all 24 games. His recent performance highlights include averaging 10.3 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.5 rebounds over the past eight games, with an impressive 39 assists against only 10 turnovers. Two-way players like Leons and Spencer are crucial for the team’s flexibility, allowing them to participate in up to 50 NBA games per season while also developing in the G League. This strategic roster update suggests the Warriors are keen to enhance their competitiveness as the season unfolds.