2019 NBA free agency tracker: Grades for every deal so far
Willie Cauley-Stein: 2 years, $4.4 million (Golden State Warriors)
Sources: Center Willie Cauley-Stein’s contract with the Golden State Warriors: Two years and $4.4M, with a player option in the second season.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 10, 2019
Willie Cauley-Stein hasn’t come close to approaching his pre-draft projections as a future Defensive Player of the Year candidate, but more than likely, it sounds like the Golden State Warriors will be signing a quality backup for Kevon Looney (or starter, in the event of injuries) for something close to the minimum.
Considering WCS earned $4.7 million last season and could’ve made a lot more than this on the open market, this is a steal and a half for the Dubs. It likely signals the end of the DeMarcus Cousins era, and casts doubt on Damian Jones’ future as well, but after agreeing to bring back Looney, the Warriors now have two capable, defensive-minded bigs with room to grow.
Last year, Cauley-Stein averaged 11.9 points, 8.4 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.2 steals per game in 81 appearances, shooting 55.6 percent from the floor. He’s not the dose of offense this team could use with Klay Thompson sidelined and Kevin Durant and Boogie gone, but the 5-spot is being plugged up pretty well, especially at such a low price.
Grade: A-