The Golden State Warriors taking something from the LeBron James-led Los Angeles Lakers is something very strange to hear. Both teams had very contrasting fortunes during the season. The Warriors won their fourth NBA title in the last eight seasons, while the Lakers had a very dismal year. They couldn’t even qualify for the play-in tournament and ended up 10th in the Western Conference.
They were considered heavy favorites before 2021-22 but ended up disappointing everyone massively. The Warriors didn’t have an easy path but they were effective and earned their way to the NBA title.
McClung’s deal will be a standard, non-guaranteed deal – not an Exhibit 10 – that gives him an opportunity to make the Warriors’ roster out of training camp. https://t.co/pAk7ZTAchq
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 20, 2022
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Hence, it was a big surprise for everyone when Shams Charania reported that the Warriors signed young guard Mac McClung from the Los Angeles Lakers on a one-year deal. The Athletic insider also reported that it will be a standard non-guaranteed deal that will allow him to join the main roster straight out of training camp.
McClung averaged?13.4 points and 4.8 assists during the Summer League for the Golden State Warriors. He has been a fixture for the G League since he got undrafted last year. He has played for the South Bay Lakers and the Windy City Bulls.
McClung was named the G League Rookie of the Year last season. He initially played for the Los Angeles Lakers in the California Classic. After two games, he joined the Warriors to play the rest of the fixtures.
These are some of the fan reactions found? on Twitter:
https://twitter.com/LeSwiderman/status/1549897076233981952?s=20&t=DpfBEGsQ_awoEVl1iiw5Qg
Should have written about him in my report, thought he was one of the best unaffiliated young players at SL. Could end up another scouting win by Lakers that they let wriggle away. https://t.co/O2Dh5r8Qex
— John Hollinger (@johnhollinger) July 21, 2022
Ahhhh okay that's better. Non-guaranteed deal. So if he can't contribute he's waivable, I guess. A whole roster spot is too valuable. https://t.co/RFEYGBJjYP
— Sean (@SeanTheFan1) July 21, 2022
Many McClung advocates out there which makes me intrigued and happy the @warriors are an open-minded organization. https://t.co/SGDhyU8KB1
— Play Kuminga (@SurfJournalist) July 21, 2022
We ran out of 2-way contracts so this is what we’re left with lmao. Should’ve given Weatherspoon this contract. https://t.co/SPNNIgkpmh
— pshhh (@butterrace) July 21, 2022
Warriors take a bench player from the LeBron James-led Lakers
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The Golden State Warriors have already given up some bench pieces such as Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr. This made their squad a bit light. Porter and Payton II played an important role for them in their championship victory. Hence, the Warriors have started shopping for some other pieces.
They have also been linked to the Kevin Durant sweepstakes. The Warriors was where Durant won his two tiles and might be at the top of his list. For now, nothing has come out from Golden State’s end about this trade.
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They are busy filling the bench now. The Warriors will look to win the title again next year. These pieces are important for them to achieve that aim.