Which Forward Fits Best With the Warriors’ Current Core?

As someone who’s spent years crunching NBA lineup data in Python while watching every Warriors game since 2015 (yes, even that painful 2020 season), I’ve analyzed 10 realistic forward targets who could slot into Golden State’s system without requiring them to trade Steph Curry, Draymond Green, or their future draft capital.

The Evaluation Framework

We’re looking at three key dimensions:

1. Financial Viability: All salaries are based on 2026 projections (or 2025 for non-guaranteed contracts)
2. Shooting Metrics: Minimum 36% from deep to maintain spacing
3. Defensive Versatility: Size/length to switch in Steve Kerr’s system

Top Contenders

John Collins (Jazz)

• 19.0 PPG | 39.9% 3P | $26.58M That 206cm frame screams small-ball five potential. His rebounding (career 8.1 RPG) would help address Golden State’s chronic size issues.

Aaron Gordon (Nuggets)

• 14.7 PPG | 43.6% 3P (!) | $22.84M The ultimate connective tissue player. His defensive mobility lets him guard 1-5, and that improved shooting makes him lethal in dribble handoffs.

Value Plays

Naz Reid (Timberwolves)

• 14.4 PPG | 38.9% 3P | \(15.02M At just \)15M, his inside-out scoring is arguably the best cost-to-production ratio here. Watch his PNR defense though - needs scheme protection.

Obi Toppin (Pacers)

• 10.5 PPG | 36.4% 3P | $14M A walking transition bucket who’s learned to spot up effectively. Think younger Otto Porter Jr. with more vertical pop.

Final Verdict

If money’s no object? Gordon’s two-way impact fits like custom-made Under Armours. On a budget? Reid gives you 80% of the production at half the price. But keep an eye on Nikola Jović ($4.44M!) - that kid’s development curve looks suspiciously like peak Hedo Türkoğlu.