Last summer, the Golden State Warriors played the role of strategic facilitator in the seismic seven-team Kevin Durant trade. Their goal wasn’t the superstar, but the financial flexibility and minor assets. Now, one year later, the final acquired piece from that mega-deal – rookie Alex Toohey – has been waived, quietly concluding a footnote in one of the NBA’s most complex trade webs.
1. The Warriors as the “Deal-Makers” in a Blockbuster
When Kevin Durant moved from Phoenix to Houston in the 2024 offseason earthquake, the Warriors didn’t just watch. They entered the fray as a strategic third party, helping teams balance salaries, players, and picks through smaller side deals. Their compensation: two young prospects, Jahmai Mashack and Alex Toohey.
Jahmai Mashack: Quickly moved on and is now in the Memphis Grizzlies’ organization.
Alex Toohey: The last remaining piece, officially waived by the Warriors on Monday, as reported by insider Jake Fischer.
2. Alex Toohey: A Short-Lived NBA Dream and Clear Limitations
Toohey’s departure comes as little surprise, with clear reasons behind it:
Injury & Absence: The 21-year-old Australian forward never played a minute for the Warriors due to an ongoing knee injury.
A Flawed Professional Profile: Standing at 6-foot-8, Toohey played two NBL seasons averaging 9.3 points and 3.9 rebounds. His critical flaw was a 28% three-point shooting percentage – a major red flag for a Warriors system built on spacing.
Draft Position & Expectation: Selected 52nd overall (late second round) by Phoenix in 2025, he was always a long-term project with uncertain upside.
3. The Road Ahead: NBL Return or Another NBA Shot?
The Warriors’ door is closed, but Toohey’s journey isn’t over.
NBA Hope: Another team could see his defensive potential and frame, offering a two-way deal or a training camp invite.
The Sensible NBL Route: Returning to Australia’s NBL, where he’s a known commodity, to earn real minutes and develop his skill set (especially his shot) is the most practical and likely path. This could be a necessary step back for a future leap forward.
By waiving Alex Toohey, the Golden State Warriors have fully cleared the logistical remnants of their involvement in the historic KD trade. It’s a quiet end for a rookie who never saw the floor. For Toohey, this is a setback, not an ending. His story is a stark reminder of the NBA’s ruthlessness: even entering the league through a historic trade doesn’t guarantee your spot—you must prove your value every single day. The Australian forward’s true quest to find a basketball home is just beginning.