Warriors Nearing a Late-Season Upgrade with Amir Coffey
The Golden State Warriors have built a roster that, on paper, can contend for a title, led by a high-powered core that includes Stephen Curry and Draymond Green and, in this scenario, a star pairing with Jimmy Butler. With a run to the second round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs underscoring their window, Golden State may be looking to add a low-risk, high-reward veteran to strengthen its depth for a deeper playoff push.
If the team is prioritizing a late-summer addition that could have an immediate impact, Amir Coffey should be near the top of the wishlist. The Los Angeles Clippers made a surprising move by parting ways with Coffey after he had established himself as a reliable contributor during the 2024-25 regular season. He appeared in 72 games, including 13 starts and averaged 24.3 minutes per game, before not being included in the postseason rotation.
As of August, Coffey remains unsigned. Part of the reason for the hold-up in free agency is the current climate around restricted free agency and related negotiations, with top names in the class still resolving their own situations and prompting teams to pause decisions until those dynamics clear up.
If Golden State can navigate the Kuminga situation and land Coffey, he could become a valuable piece for the second unit. Coffey’s stat line from 2024-25 shows 9.7 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 1.4 three-pointers per game. On a per-36 basis, those numbers rise to 14.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 2.1 threes, underscoring his efficiency and scoring punch off the bench.
Shooting efficiency stands out for Coffey. He posted a .471/.409/.891 slash and a strong .570 eFG%, both above league averages. Notably, he thrives in catch-and-shoot situations, hitting 42.1 percent from three when receiving a pass off the ball, ranking among the league’s better marks for players who take at least three catch-and-shoot attempts per game. In three of the past four seasons, he has shot at least 38.9 percent in catch-and-shoot scenarios, reinforcing his reputation as a reliable floor spacer.
No player is perfect, and Coffey’s game comes with caveats. His defense can be inconsistent, his ball-handling and decision-making could improve, and his fit will hinge on how well he adapts to Golden State’s defensive schemes and ball movement. Still, his shooting profile provides a clear upside for a Warriors squad looking to fortify its depth, especially if injuries or rest periods limit the other wings.
An important factor in this decision is whether Coffey would accept a minimum-salary contract. The market may be favorable for him, but other teams could pursue larger deals, particularly if Golden State makes a push for Al Horford or similar veteran help. If the Warriors can secure Coffey on a minimum or near-minimum deal, it would represent a smart, low-risk option to add shooting density without sacrificing long-term flexibility.
Bottom line: Coffey brings elite shooting efficiency and a proven ability to space the floor, which could complement a Warriors lineup built around Curry, Green, and a high-caliber wing. His arrival would add bench scoring and versatility, provided Golden State can address defensive consistency and fit him into Kerr’s rotation. If the club can navigate Kuminga’s status and secure Coffey at a reasonable price, this move could prove to be a valuable, cost-effective upgrade for a title-contending team.
Takeaways for readers
– Why Coffey makes sense: Elite catch-and-shoot ability, efficient scoring off the bench, and a track record of contributing despite limited role changes.
– What to watch for: His willingness to take a minimum deal, how he adapts to Golden State’s system, and whether the Warriors’ ongoing Kuminga negotiations influence the final decision.
– Potential hurdles: Defensive consistency, handling ball pressure, and ensuring fit with Kerr’s late-game lineups.
Summary: Coffey offers a compelling combination of shooting efficiency and bench versatility that could help the Warriors deepen their rotation and maintain offensive momentum when Curry rests. If Golden State can land him at a sensible price and integrate him alongside a star-studded core, this move has the potential to be a smart, low-cost upgrade with real playoff upside.
Optional hopeful note: The possibility of adding Coffey reinforces the idea that Golden State remains aggressive about maintaining its championship window, seeking value in a crowded veteran market while staying flexible for ongoing roster decisions.