Golden State Warriors: Complete 2017 offseason grades

Re-signing Andre Iguodala (SF)

According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Golden State Warriors and Andre Iguodala agreed to a three-year deal worth $48 million. Iguodala briefly tested the free agent market this summer before ultimately deciding to stay with the Warriors. He has been an integral piece of the Golden State title run despite a lack of gaudy stats and with reduced minutes coming off the bench.

Iguodala is perhaps best known for his 2015 NBA Finals MVP award. His defense on LeBron James during the last three Finals has drawn praise each year. This, despite James scoring over 30 points a game and becoming the first player to average a triple-double in the Finals. Rather than a knock on Iguodala, this a reflection of the transcendent dominance of LeBron when a player can average those types of numbers and the defense can still get recognition.

What is concerning for the Warriors is that Andre Iguodala will be 36 years old by the end of this contract. By the 2020 season, Iguodala’s productivity will largely be based on how his athleticism holds up. Regardless, he can help offset his eventual physical decline by continuing to develop his jumper.

Last year, Iggy averaged career highs in overall field goal percentage as well as 2-point shooting percentage. By solidifying his outside shooting, Iguodala will ensure that he is ready for the next phase of his career.

While securing and re-signing Andre Iguodala was a goal that the Warriors set and accomplished this summer, the price was heavier than they would have liked. For an aging forward whose value is largely based on his defensive contributions, this deal could hurt in the long-term. However, winning is the great equalizer and another championship or two during the course of Iguodala’s contract will easily justify the extra money spent.

Grade: B