Warriors to work out Darren Collison for possible return to NBA
It’s pretty clear that the Golden State Warriors are not quite finished making — or attempting to make — offseason free agency moves.
Just a little over a week ago, Warriors GM Bob Myers mentioned the team’s need for a guard during media availability.
“I think we still need, probably some kind of ball-handling guard, Myers said.” “ We’re a little thin there. I think it doesn’t take a genius to see that. That’s where if Steph (Curry) or Jordan (Poole) were to miss some time, we’d be a little vulnerable there.”
So it isn’t shocking that the Warriors are planning to work out retired, 34-year old point guard Darren Collison, according to a report from Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes.
Collison’s 2019 retirement came somewhat unexpectedly following a good 2018-2019 campaign from the then Indiana Pacers point guard. He started in all 76 games that he suited up for and averaged 11.2 points, 6 assists, 1.4 steals, all while shooting 40.7 percent from deep.
The 10-year NBA veteran announced his retirement on June 28 of 2019 when he penned a letter announcing his decision via The Undefeated. Collison said his decision to hang up his basketball shoes came as a result of wanting to devote more time and energy to his family and faith.
It’s unclear as to what is spurring Collison’s decision to return, but he did tease a return in the 2019-2020 season, potentially pairing himself with the Lakers as he was seen sitting courtside to a game at Staples Center next to President of the Lakers, Jeannie Buss. Collison later mentioned that he had no intention of making a return.
The Southern California native also reportedly worked out for the Lakers a few weeks back, however, Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reported Monday morning that Rajon Rondo plans to sign with the Lakers on a one-year deal. That signing likely means that the Lakers do not intend to sign another point guard.
If the Warriors do end up making an agreement to sign the sharpshooter they would likely need to waive one of their three players who are currently on non-guaranteed deals. Those players are Gary Payton II, Mychal Mulder, and Damion Lee.
Collison is a highly esteemed veteran point guard and someone who is very capable of taking control of the offense in the absence of Curry or Poole. If Golden State can land him on a minimum deal, it would be an absolute steal and would really put the cherry on top of what has already been a good off-season for them.