Melton’s Warriors reunion finalized on two-year, $11M deal
Golden State adds a proven two-way guard on a modest pact, reuniting with Kerr’s system after stints in Memphis and Philly.
Golden State adds a proven two-way guard on a modest pact, reuniting with Kerr’s system after stints in Memphis and Philly.
De'Anthony Melton is officially returning to the Golden State Warriors on a two-year, $11 million deal, reuniting with the franchise where he began his NBA career. The free-agent guard finalized the agreement after productive stops in Memphis and Philadelphia, adding backcourt depth to a Warriors team chasing another championship run. The contract’s structure—$11M over two years—positions Golden State to retain Melton’s two-way impact without overcommitting financially.
The Warriors’ backcourt rotation now includes Melton alongside Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Chris Paul, bolstering their depth and continuity. The move also reflects Melton’s preference for a familiar system and culture under Steve Kerr. 1% from the field.
His defensive versatility and off-ball movement fit Golden State’s scheme, where he previously played 150 games from 2018 to 2022. The Warriors’ front office prioritized low-risk, high-upside additions to complement their core, and Melton checks both boxes. His ability to guard multiple positions and thrive in transition makes him a seamless fit for Kerr’s motion-heavy system, a trait that became even more valuable after the Warriors’ midseason trade for Chris Paul.
The addition also addresses a key weakness exposed in last year’s playoffs: perimeter defense. Melton’s presence allows Golden State to deploy longer lineups, switching more aggressively without sacrificing offensive firepower. While he’s not a primary playmaker, his off-ball movement and shooting gravity space the floor for Curry and Thompson, a role he excelled in during his first stint with the franchise.
The Warriors’ reliance on three-point shooting and defensive versatility makes Melton’s profile a perfect schematic match. Beyond the numbers, Melton’s return underscores a broader trend in the NBA: teams are increasingly valuing continuity over splashy free-agent signings. Golden State’s decision to bring back a player who thrived in their system—rather than chase bigger names—reflects a calculated risk that has paid off in the past.
For a franchise that has built its dynasty on smart, low-risk moves, this deal fits the mold. It also sends a message to the rest of the league about the importance of culture and fit, especially in an era where player movement often overshadows stability. ESPN’s Shams Charania first reported the agreement, confirming the timeline and terms.
Warriors president of basketball operations Bob Myers declined to comment beyond the team’s standard post-free-agency posture, but the move aligns with Golden State’s strategy of leveraging proven role players. Melton’s return also sends a signal to the rest of the league: Golden State is prioritizing continuity and culture over splashy free-agent splashes, a strategy that has paid dividends in the past. What’s next: The Warriors will finalize roster details ahead of training camp, with Melton expected to compete for minutes in a crowded backcourt.
If he replicates his two-way impact, Golden State’s championship window remains intact without sacrificing flexibility. The team’s ability to integrate Melton quickly will be critical, especially given the chemistry required in Kerr’s system. Early camp reports will determine whether he can carve out a defined role alongside Curry, Thompson, and Paul. Read at ESPN
Melton’s return gives the Warriors a proven two-way guard at a bargain rate, shoring up backcourt depth without derailing cap flexibility. For a team chasing another title run, continuity and culture fit matter as much as star power. The deal’s structure—short, team-friendly, and low-risk—leaves Golden State room to pivot if the market shifts. His defensive versatility and off-ball shooting address two of the Warriors’ most pressing needs, making him a low-effort upgrade with high upside. The move also underscores Golden State’s commitment to a core that has already delivered a championship, betting that familiarity breeds success. It reflects a league-wide shift toward stability, where proven role players are prized over unproven stars.
ESPNespn.comBy Anthony SlaterJul 1, 4:57 PMen
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