Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr
Getty
Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr during a game against the Chicago Bulls in March 2026
Ahead of the offseason, the Golden State Warriors appear well positioned to pursue significant roster upgrades, armed with a strong collection of assets that could facilitate major moves.
General manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. has previously highlighted the team’s control of four first-round picks and multiple pick swaps over the next seven years.
In addition, ESPN’s Bobby Marks has noted that the combined $18 million salaries of Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski could be included in trade discussions, while Kristaps Porzingis could also factor into potential sign-and-trade scenarios if he approves such a move.
While that draft capital could be used in a blockbuster deal for Giannis Antetokounmpo or another established star, it also presents an opportunity to strengthen the roster internally with young, cost-controlled talent.
Golden State Warriors Linked With Breakout Alabama Guard
In his mock draft at the end of February, Bleacher Report analyst Jonathan Wasserman projected the Warriors selecting Alabama point guard Labaron Philon Jr. with the 15th overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft.
After averaging 10.6 points and 3.8 assists per game as a freshman, Philon has taken a significant leap, emerging as one of college basketball’s most productive scorers.
The 20-year-old is averaging 22.0 points per game through 31 contests, the 12th-highest mark in the entire nation.
He is shooting an efficient 51.1% from the field and an impressive 40.3% from three-point range on 5.8 attempts per game, while also contributing 3.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.2 steals.
On Friday, Philon further strengthened his case as a lottery prospect, erupting for 29 points in the opening round of March Madness.
In Alabama’s 90-70 win over Hofstra, the dynamic scorer added eight rebounds and seven assists, narrowly missing out on a triple-double.
He also recorded three steals, finishing 10-of-18 from the field, 3-of-7 from beyond the arc and 6-of-7 from the free-throw line in an impressive all-around display.
“Consistency and improved shooting have helped sway scouts to buy Labaron Philon’s breakout and NBA outlook,” Wasserman wrote. “He’s making over two threes a game, finishing at the rim with improved craft and converting his touch shots using signature footwork and control.”
“He benefits from high usage and a green light. And there will likely be teams that prefer the younger point guards who are also more natural playmakers.”
Labaron Philon Jr. Emerging as Dynamic Scoring Option
Philon’s breakout campaign has been driven by a series of standout performances, with the guard surpassing the 25-point mark in 11 games this season, including a dominant 35-point outing against Arkansas in mid-February.
In that game, he shot 11-of-21 from the field, knocked down three three-pointers and converted 10-of-13 free throws, while also adding seven assists in a well-rounded performance.
“Philon is one of the shiftiest scorers in this class,” ESPN’s Jeremy Woo recently reported. “He has displayed all-around strides this season, keeping himself in the first-round picture and offering shot-creation chops as a ball handler.”
“Without top-end strength or explosiveness at his position, he projects better as a combo guard who can give teams an extra punch off the bench rather than as a full-time point guard.”
That projection could make him a natural fit within Golden State’s system. Playing alongside established offensive creators such as Stephen Curry, Philon would not need to shoulder primary playmaking responsibilities early in his career.
Instead, he could thrive as a scoring option off the ball and a secondary creator, gradually expanding his role as he develops.
For a Golden State Warriors team looking to remain competitive while planning for the future, adding a dynamic scoring guard in that range could provide value both immediately and in the post-Curry era.