It finally happened. After nearly two months of waiting, the Golden State Warriors made their first new free agent addition, agreeing to sign former Dallas Mavericks guard Brandon Williams on a one-year $2.6 million deal. Prior to that, Golden State's only additions were No. 11 overall pick Yaxel Lendeborg and No. 54 overall pick Lajae Jones. Williams impressed last season in Dallas, scoring a career-high 13 points per game in his fourth season to go along with 3.9 assists, 2.9 rebounds and 0.9 steals. His acquisition also marks a reunion between him and his former high school teammate, De'Anthony Melton.
For what the Warriors had to spend, Williams easily could have been the best free agent available, a much better get than the two other veterans Golden State had been linked to. While watching Williams during the 2025-26 season, it's apparent that his speed, explosiveness and ability to finish around the rim are all elite skills. However, there is one notable drawback to his game, poor 3-point shooting. Williams shot only 23.2% from beyond the arc last season, a number that will need improving on during the 2026-27 season.
Whether or not Williams can make this improvement will likely be the difference between a solid addition and an incredible bargain pickup.
Grade: A
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