The Golden State Warriors pursued Giannis Antetokounmpo and LeBron James, but their big offseason addition was rookie wing Yaxel Lendeborg. Four seasons removed from the fourth NBA championship of the Stephen Curry era, the Warriors face questions about their contender status during Curry's final years. The return of Jimmy Butler III from a torn ACL will help, but they seem far from the title tier in the West.

Key additions include Lendeborg, Brandon Williams, and Georges Niang; subtractions are Quinten Post and Pat Spencer. They retained Draymond Green, Al Horford, Kristaps Porzingis, Gary Payton II, and De'Anthony Melton. The Warriors opted for flexibility and stability, keeping veteran contracts short-term and protecting future draft picks and cap space.

ESPN's Zach Kram graded their offseason C+, noting the new deals don't move the needle for a team stuck in the middle. Last season, the injury-ravaged Warriors went 37-45. It's unclear when Butler will return, so Curry, 38, may start the season without his star teammate. Steve Kerr signed a new contract to remain coach, but the team lacked a backup plan after missing on James.

The big question is whether flexibility leads to a trade deadline strike. If Butler returns near his pre-injury form, he could provide the boost Curry needs. Otherwise, the Warriors may cash in chips for a significant trade, similar to moves by the Washington Wizards and Utah Jazz last deadline.