The Golden State Warriors are reportedly exploring the idea of signing veteran big man and former NBA champion Tristan Thompson as they seek to fill the void left by Kevon Looney ’s recent departure. According to a report by Dean Simon, the franchise could be considering Thompson as a backup option to bolster their frontcourt depth for the upcoming 2025–26 season.
Golden State Warriors Yet to Make a Move in Free Agency
As of now, the Golden State Warriors have not made any official moves in free agency. However, the team is expected to strengthen their rotation at center following the exit of longtime fan favorite Kevon Looney, who signed with the New Orleans Pelicans earlier this offseason. Looney, a key part of Golden State’s championship core, leaves behind a gap in rebounding and defensive consistency that the team is eager to address.
Al Horford Remains a Top Target
Golden State has expressed interest in acquiring 5-time All-Star and seasoned veteran Al Horford. The 38-year-old brings a wealth of experience and leadership, but any potential deal has reportedly been delayed due to ongoing negotiations with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. The Golden State Warriors’ front office, led by general manager Mike Dunleavy, appears to be exercising patience as they navigate their roster puzzle.
Tristan Thompson Emerges as a Veteran Backup Option
With no guarantees on Horford’s arrival and Kuminga’s situation still unresolved, the Warriors are now eyeing an insurance policy at the center spot. Tristan Thompson, a 2016 NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers and a familiar Finals rival to the Golden State Warriors, could be a sensible short-term solution.
Despite being 34 years old and well past his prime, Thompson still brings one standout skill that could be of use: offensive rebounding.
Tristan Thompson’s Career Stats
In limited minutes last season with the Cavaliers, Tristan Thompson averaged 1.7 points and 3.4 rebounds in just 8.2 minutes per game. Though his role was minimal, his efficiency on the boards remained notable.
Finals History with Golden State
One factor that may work in Thompson’s favor is his familiarity with the Warriors’ system—albeit as an opponent. During the four consecutive NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and Cavaliers from 2015 to 2018, Thompson was a key contributor for Cleveland. He averaged 8.6 rebounds over 22 Finals games and played an integral role in Cleveland’s historic 2016 championship victory over Golden State.
Concerns and Considerations
While Tristan Thompson’s mobility and athleticism have declined, his veteran presence and rebounding instincts could still make him valuable in a limited role off the bench. Golden State may be willing to overlook his physical decline in favor of experience, locker room presence, and familiarity with postseason intensity.
As Dean Simon noted, “The 34-year-old frontcourt force’s experience as one of the best offensive rebounders in the entire NBA could serve the Warriors well in a limited role.”
If the Golden State Warriors proceed with signing Thompson, it would likely be on a short-term, veteran minimum deal to add depth and leadership to a team that still believes it can compete in the Western Conference. Whether or not Horford signs, Thompson could offer a safety net at the five—particularly in situations requiring toughness and playoff experience.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Floated in Bold Five-Team Deal Landing $238 Million Utah Jazz Superstar; LeBron James and Austin Reaves Key Trade Assets?
As the 2025–26 season approaches, Golden State’s roster decisions will reveal how much they value veteran presence versus youthful upside, especially in the wake of Looney’s departure.
Golden State Warriors Yet to Make a Move in Free Agency
As of now, the Golden State Warriors have not made any official moves in free agency. However, the team is expected to strengthen their rotation at center following the exit of longtime fan favorite Kevon Looney, who signed with the New Orleans Pelicans earlier this offseason. Looney, a key part of Golden State’s championship core, leaves behind a gap in rebounding and defensive consistency that the team is eager to address.
Al Horford Remains a Top Target
Golden State has expressed interest in acquiring 5-time All-Star and seasoned veteran Al Horford. The 38-year-old brings a wealth of experience and leadership, but any potential deal has reportedly been delayed due to ongoing negotiations with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. The Golden State Warriors’ front office, led by general manager Mike Dunleavy, appears to be exercising patience as they navigate their roster puzzle.
Tristan Thompson Emerges as a Veteran Backup Option
With no guarantees on Horford’s arrival and Kuminga’s situation still unresolved, the Warriors are now eyeing an insurance policy at the center spot. Tristan Thompson, a 2016 NBA champion with the Cleveland Cavaliers and a familiar Finals rival to the Golden State Warriors, could be a sensible short-term solution.
Despite being 34 years old and well past his prime, Thompson still brings one standout skill that could be of use: offensive rebounding.
Tristan Thompson’s Career Stats
In limited minutes last season with the Cavaliers, Tristan Thompson averaged 1.7 points and 3.4 rebounds in just 8.2 minutes per game. Though his role was minimal, his efficiency on the boards remained notable.
Finals History with Golden State
One factor that may work in Thompson’s favor is his familiarity with the Warriors’ system—albeit as an opponent. During the four consecutive NBA Finals between the Golden State Warriors and Cavaliers from 2015 to 2018, Thompson was a key contributor for Cleveland. He averaged 8.6 rebounds over 22 Finals games and played an integral role in Cleveland’s historic 2016 championship victory over Golden State.
Concerns and Considerations
While Tristan Thompson’s mobility and athleticism have declined, his veteran presence and rebounding instincts could still make him valuable in a limited role off the bench. Golden State may be willing to overlook his physical decline in favor of experience, locker room presence, and familiarity with postseason intensity.
As Dean Simon noted, “The 34-year-old frontcourt force’s experience as one of the best offensive rebounders in the entire NBA could serve the Warriors well in a limited role.”
If the Golden State Warriors proceed with signing Thompson, it would likely be on a short-term, veteran minimum deal to add depth and leadership to a team that still believes it can compete in the Western Conference. Whether or not Horford signs, Thompson could offer a safety net at the five—particularly in situations requiring toughness and playoff experience.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Floated in Bold Five-Team Deal Landing $238 Million Utah Jazz Superstar; LeBron James and Austin Reaves Key Trade Assets?
As the 2025–26 season approaches, Golden State’s roster decisions will reveal how much they value veteran presence versus youthful upside, especially in the wake of Looney’s departure.
You may also like
CM Yogi's Light-Hearted Dig at Ravi Kishan Sparks Laughter, Sends Strong Message Against Encroachment
Leopard Attack In Tirupati: Close Shave For Rider After Big Cat Pounces On Moving Bike At Night; Incident Caught On Cam
Luke Humphries showed true colours after inspiring World Matchplay star to return to darts
Lucy Bronze's 'romance' with Spain star Ona Batlle after sizzling summer holiday
Netflix quietly adds 'best show ever' as 'obsessed' fans cancel their weekend plans
