Golden State Warriors' Top Needs After 2026 NBA Draft Lottery Results
The NBA Draft lottery is in the books, and the Golden State Warriors are now set at pick No. 11.
As they continue to evaluate the prospects who may be available there, we're here to break down the biggest needs for Golden State to address in the draft.
Athleticism
With Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green and Al Horford (assuming he picks up his player option) all under contract for next season, the Warriors are in dire need of an infusion of athleticism.
The teams making deep playoff runs over the last two years have generally played aggressive, physical defense, and the Warriors just don't have enough of that. At his age, Draymond doesn't even provide it the way he once did. A big-time athlete who's willing and capable of doing a little bullying could go a long way.
Secondary Creator
On a similar note, the playmaking burden currently carried by Curry and Green is probably just a little too heavy for players in their mid-to-late thirties.
A creator capable of taking on some of that responsibility and creating some stress-free looks for Curry and other Warriors could revive some of the magic of Golden State's offense.
Size
With Quinten Post and Kristaps Porziņģis entering free agency and Horford entering his age-40 season, the Warriors could use a bona fide center.
We're so far removed from the start of their dynasty that it may be hard for some to remember, but Andrew Bogut's defense, passing and screen-setting were crucial components of the breakout.
Realistic Draft Targets at No. 11 Pick
- Labaron Philon Jr. (Alabama, G)
- Yaxel Lendeborg (Michigan, PF)
- Karim Lopez (New Zealand, PF)
If Labaron Philon Jr. slips out of the top 10, he'd fill more of a "best player available" spot than a need. But his playmaking led to 22.0 points and 5.0 assists per game this past season, and his defensive improvements helped make up for a lack of great size.
Of course, if Golden State wants to look bigger, Michigan's Yaxel Lendeborg feels just about perfect. At 6'9", he stretched the floor this past season to the tune of 37.2 percent from three on 4.5 attempts per game. And while he's already 23 years old, an evolving deep shot points to more upside than you might normally find at someone his age.
*Check out full scouting reports for Labaron Philon Jr., Yaxel Lendeborg and Karim Lopez.
