The Golden State Warriors are no strangers to defying expectations. As the 2025-26 NBA season looms, the dynastic franchise is poised to make a splash by potentially reuniting with a familiar face: Alec Burks, a 6-foot-6 guard whose sharpshooting prowess could elevate their already lethal offense. With a 42.5% three-point shooting clip in the 2024-25 season, Burks represents the kind of veteran addition that could seamlessly complement the Warriors’ star trio of Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green, while adding depth to a championship-hungry roster.
The Kuminga Stalemate and Golden State’s Offseason Strategy
The Warriors’ offseason has been mired in uncertainty, with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga’s unresolved contract situation stalling their front office’s plans. The 22-year-old former No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft has yet to reach an agreement with the team, leaving General Manager Mike Dunleavy unable to make significant moves in free agency. Despite this, the Warriors remain focused on bolstering their roster to support their core and chase another title in the 2025-26 campaign.
Enter Alec Burks, a 34-year-old journeyman guard who could be the perfect under-the-radar acquisition. Fresh off a season with the Miami Heat, where he averaged 7.3 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.1 assists while shooting an impressive 42.5% on 4.2 three-point attempts per game, Burks has proven he still has plenty left in the tank. His ability to stretch the floor and provide reliable scoring off the bench makes him an ideal fit for Golden State’s system under head coach Steve Kerr.
A Proven Fit: Burks’ First Stint with the Warriors
This wouldn’t be Burks’ first rodeo with the Warriors. During the 2019-20 season, he appeared in 48 games for Golden State, averaging a career-high 16.1 points while shooting 37.5% from beyond the arc. His versatility as a scorer and his ability to create his own shot made him a valuable asset before he was traded mid-season to the Philadelphia 76ers. Now, with five additional years of experience and a refined three-point stroke, Burks could return as an even better fit alongside Curry and newly acquired sharpshooter Buddy Hield.
Burks’ skill set aligns perfectly with the Warriors’ fast-paced, spacing-heavy offense. At 6-foot-6, he brings size to the guard position, allowing him to defend multiple positions while providing a reliable catch-and-shoot option. His 42.5% three-point shooting with Miami last season ranked among the league’s elite, and his ability to thrive in limited minutes (49 appearances, 14 starts) demonstrates his readiness to contribute to a contending team’s rotation.
A Lethal Trio: Burks, Curry, and Hield
The prospect of Burks joining forces with Stephen Curry and Buddy Hield is enough to make opposing defenses tremble. Curry, widely regarded as the greatest shooter in NBA history, and Hield, a career 40% three-point marksman, already form a devastating backcourt duo. Adding Burks’ sniper-like accuracy from deep would give Kerr an embarrassment of riches in terms of perimeter threats. The Warriors’ bench, which has been a cornerstone of their championship runs, could become even more dangerous with Burks providing instant offense.
Burks’ role would likely mirror his time in Miami, where he excelled as a spark plug off the bench. His ability to knock down open threes, handle the ball in pick-and-roll situations, and contribute defensively would give Golden State the flexibility to rest Curry and Hield without sacrificing offensive firepower. Furthermore, Burks’ veteran presence could provide leadership for a Warriors squad looking to integrate younger players like Kuminga (if he re-signs) or other new additions.
Why Burks Makes Sense for Golden State
At 34, Burks is no longer the lottery pick who entered the league with the Utah Jazz in 2011, but his evolution into a premier role player makes him an ideal target for a team like Golden State. His efficiency from long range, combined with his experience across 14 NBA seasons, ensures he can handle the pressures of a championship chase. Additionally, his prior familiarity with Kerr’s system means he could hit the ground running, minimizing the adjustment period often required for new additions.
The Warriors’ pursuit of Burks would also signal their commitment to maximizing the championship window of Curry, Butler, and Green. With Kuminga’s situation unresolved, Dunleavy must explore cost-effective options to bolster the roster, and Burks’ likely affordability in free agency makes him an attractive option. Whether through a minimum contract or a mid-level exception, signing Burks would allow Golden State to address a key need without breaking the bank.
A Championship X-Factor
As the Warriors navigate the complexities of their offseason, Alec Burks looms as a potential game-changer. His 42.5% three-point shooting, veteran savvy, and prior experience with the franchise make him a perfect fit for a team aiming to shock the NBA with another title run. Paired with Curry’s unparalleled shooting, Hield’s long-range consistency, and Green’s defensive tenacity, Burks could help Golden State’s bench unit overwhelm opponents in ways the league won’t see coming.
If Mike Dunleavy and the Warriors’ front office can resolve the Kuminga saga and make a move for Burks, the NBA should brace itself for a Golden State squad ready to unleash a three-point barrage unlike any other. The 2025-26 season could mark the return of a Warriors dynasty—and Alec Burks might just be the secret weapon that pushes them over the top.