The Golden State Warriors have been eerily quiet in free agency, leaving fans restless as the roster remains thin with just nine players. But a golden opportunity has just fallen into their lap, courtesy of one of the NBA’s struggling franchises. The Charlotte Hornets, unable to find a trade partner, have waived defensive standout Josh Okogie, whose $7.7 million contract for the upcoming season became fully guaranteed. Now, the 26-year-old wing is a free agent, presenting the Warriors with a potential gem who could not only fill the void left by Gary Payton II but might even surpass him.
Josh Okogie emerges as a near-perfect replacement for Payton, bringing a similar defensive tenacity but with a slightly larger frame and a touch of youthful upside. At 26, Okogie offers the Warriors a chance to fortify their perimeter and wing defense—a glaring need for a team looking to reclaim its championship pedigree. Much like Payton, Okogie thrives on the defensive end, but his recent performance suggests he might outshine the 32-year-old veteran.
Last season, across 40 games with the Phoenix Suns and Charlotte Hornets, Okogie averaged 7.1 points, 2.8 rebounds, and an impressive 1.2 steals per game. His defensive impact was undeniable: opponents shot just 43.8% from the floor and a jaw-dropping 17.7% from three-point range when guarded by Okogie. Compare that to Payton, whose opponents shot 47.7% overall and 37.2% from beyond the arc, and it’s clear Okogie brings a sharper edge on defense, even while playing for two lottery-bound teams.
While Okogie shares some of Payton’s offensive limitations, he’s shown flashes of growth that make him an intriguing fit for the Warriors’ system. Like Payton, Okogie is a savvy cutter who can capitalize on the gravitational pull of Stephen Curry and the playmaking prowess of Jimmy Butler. His ability to slash to the rim could seamlessly integrate into Golden State’s motion-heavy offense, creating easy scoring opportunities.
Okogie’s outside shooting, while not his calling card, has also improved steadily. After struggling below 30% from three-point range in his first four seasons, he’s climbed above that mark in each of the last three years, peaking at a career-best 34.8% last season—including an impressive 38.1% in his 25 games with the Suns. While he’ll never be a sniper, this progress suggests he can at least keep defenses honest, adding another dimension to his game that Payton lacks.
Gary Payton II remains a beloved figure in the Bay Area, and his status as an unrestricted free agent leaves open the possibility of a return. However, with Payton still unsigned and the Warriors’ front office, led by Mike Dunleavy Jr., making tough calls—like parting ways with veteran Kevon Looney—the team may be ready to move on. Payton’s sentimental value is undeniable, but at 32, his best days may be behind him. Okogie, six years younger, offers a fresh alternative with comparable defensive chops and greater potential for growth.
Neither player is guaranteed a spot in Steve Kerr’s rotation, but Okogie’s defensive metrics and slight offensive edge make him a compelling option. His ability to disrupt opponents’ shooting, particularly from deep, could be a game-changer for a Warriors squad desperate to shore up its perimeter defense. At $7.7 million, Okogie represents a cost-effective steal for a team looking to maximize value without breaking the bank.
The Warriors’ inaction in free agency has been a source of frustration, but Josh Okogie’s availability could be the spark they need. His defensive prowess, improving offensive game, and youth make him an ideal candidate to step into—or even upgrade—Payton’s role. As the Warriors navigate Jonathan Kuminga’s future and aim to rebuild a championship-contending roster around Stephen Curry, Okogie could prove to be the under-the-radar signing that pushes them closer to their goal. With the Hornets handing them this unexpected gift, the Warriors would be wise to act fast and secure a player who could be a difference-maker in the Bay.