The Golden State Warriors are making waves in the offseason, but not all of them are being met with enthusiasm from Dub Nation. As the team prepares to bolster its roster with veteran additions like Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton, and potentially Seth Curry, a surprising decision has left fans and analysts in disbelief: the apparent departure of Braxton Key, a versatile forward who showcased remarkable potential during his brief stint with the team last season.
A Brief but Brilliant Stint
Braxton Key, a 6’8″ forward, joined the Warriors on a two-way contract in early March after bouncing around the NBA with the Philadelphia 76ers, Detroit Pistons, and Denver Nuggets, where he played a total of 34 games over three seasons. While his NBA minutes were limited, Key quickly made his mark in the G League with the Santa Cruz Warriors. In 11 games, he averaged an impressive 25.6 points, 11.3 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 3.8 steals, and 0.9 blocks, while shooting an astonishing 55.4% from the field and 45.2% from three-point range.
His stellar performance didn’t go unnoticed. Key’s defensive prowess and all-around game earned him the G League Defensive Player of the Year award, a prestigious honor previously won by Gary Payton II in 2021 before he became a key piece for Golden State. Key’s impact was so undeniable that his two-way contract was converted to a standard deal just before the playoffs, allowing him to appear in five postseason games, including the entire fourth quarter of Game 5 in the Warriors’ first-round series against the Houston Rockets.
A Crowded Roster and Tough Choices
Despite his contributions, the Warriors’ front office seems poised to move on without Key. With six roster spots still open, the team is prioritizing high-profile signings like Horford, Melton, and possibly Curry, while also working to re-sign restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga and potentially Gary Payton II. Additionally, second-round pick Will Richard is expected to join the main roster, further tightening the available spots.
The decision to part ways with Key is particularly perplexing given his elite shooting and defensive versatility. His 55.4% field goal percentage and 45.2% three-point shooting in the G League are numbers that would make any team take notice, especially for a Warriors squad that thrives on spacing and defensive flexibility. Fans have taken to social media to express their frustration, with many pointing out that Key’s skill set aligns perfectly with Golden State’s fast-paced, shooting-heavy system.
The Two-Way Contract Dilemma
One significant hurdle for Key is his eligibility, or lack thereof, for another two-way contract. After four years in the league, NBA rules prevent him from signing another two-way deal, meaning any team interested in him would need to offer a standard contract. This limitation likely complicates his chances of securing a spot with the Warriors, who are already juggling a crowded roster and salary cap constraints.
If the Warriors fail to re-sign Kuminga, there could be a case for bringing Key back to fill the void left by a athletic, defensively sound forward. His size, hustle, and ability to stretch the floor would complement Golden State’s core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and the incoming veterans. However, as it stands, the front office appears to have other priorities, leaving Key’s future with the team uncertain.
Dub Nation’s Reaction
The Warriors’ fanbase, known for its passionate support, has been vocal about the potential loss of Key. Social media platforms like X are buzzing with posts lamenting the decision, with fans highlighting his G League dominance and playoff contributions. “Why let go of a guy shooting 45% from three and locking down in the paint?” one fan posted. Another wrote, “Braxton Key was a steal, and we’re just letting him walk? This front office better have a plan.”
As the Warriors gear up for another championship run, the decision to move on from Key could haunt them if injuries or roster imbalances arise. For now, Dub Nation can only hope that the front office’s gamble pays off—or that Key finds his way back to Chase Center in the future.