The Golden State Warriors have a glaring hole at the center position, a weakness that has persisted despite their storied success. While they’ve thrived with small-ball lineups anchored by Draymond Green, the team has long valued a defensive-minded big man to complement their system, from Andrew Bogut’s rim protection in 2015 to Kevon Looney’s steady presence in recent years. As the Warriors look to bolster their roster, they face stiff competition from teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and LA Clippers, both of whom are also hunting for upgrades at center.
One name that has surfaced in trade rumors is Milwaukee’s Brook Lopez, a stretch-five who could transform Golden State’s spacing. But with Lopez in high demand, the Warriors need a backup plan—and an unexpected candidate has emerged: Atlanta Hawks center Clint Capela.
Capela, an 11-year NBA veteran, is set to hit unrestricted free agency at the end of the 2024-25 season. Currently in the final year of a two-year, $45,881,280 contract with Atlanta, his salary might stretch the Warriors’ budget, but a softer free-agent market could make him an attainable target. This season, Capela is averaging 8.9 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks on an efficient 56% shooting from the field, showcasing his reliability as a rim-running, defensive anchor.
Bobby Marks on the Warriors:
“I think the one name to keep an eye on regarding that center position is Brook Lopez” pic.twitter.com/OyjxdjaTnr
— Oh No He Didn’t (@ohnohedidnt24) May 15, 2025
For a Warriors team that has leaned on Looney’s grit but craves an upgrade, Capela could be a seamless fit. His defensive instincts and rebounding prowess align with the mold of Bogut and Looney, offering rim protection and physicality without disrupting Golden State’s fast-paced system. While Draymond Green thrives as a small-ball center to spread the floor, his undersized frame requires careful management against bigger opponents. Capela’s presence would allow Green to shift to power forward, preserving his versatility while fortifying the frontcourt.
However, Capela isn’t a perfect solution. Unlike Lopez, he doesn’t stretch the floor, which could limit Golden State’s spacing in certain lineups. If the Warriors prioritize a starting center who can shoot, they might need to look elsewhere. But if their goal is a defensively sound big man who excels in the paint, Capela could be a steal—especially if his market value dips in free agency.
As the Warriors chase another championship, Capela’s name might not have been on anyone’s radar, but this under-the-radar veteran could be the missing piece to elevate their roster. With the right price, Golden State might just pull off a move that catches the league by surprise.