As the 2025-26 NBA season looms, the Golden State Warriors are facing a glaring hole at the center position. With the clock ticking, the Dubs are scouring the market for a veteran big man to anchor their frontcourt, and Memphis Grizzlies’ Jock Landale is emerging as a prime target to fill this critical void.
Jock Landale, a 29-year-old Australian center, brings a skill set that could seamlessly integrate into Golden State’s high-octane offense. A four-year NBA veteran and Saint Mary’s product, Landale has proven himself as a reliable floor-spacing big, shooting an impressive 42.3 percent from beyond the arc in the 2024-25 season. His ability to stretch the floor would create more space for Stephen Curry to work his magic, allowing the two-time MVP to launch his signature long-range bombs with even greater ease.
Beyond his shooting prowess, Landale excels in the pick-and-roll, a staple of the Warriors’ system under head coach Steve Kerr. His knack for setting solid screens and making smart reads could unlock new opportunities for Curry and open driving lanes for Golden State’s slashers attacking the rim. Landale’s playmaking ability also adds another dimension, as he can deliver precise passes to cutters or roll hard to the basket for easy finishes.
With Landale entering the final year of his contract at a modest $2.46 million, the Warriors see an opportunity to address their needs without breaking the bank. Acquiring the Grizzlies’ big man could serve as a cost-effective move for a team navigating the NBA’s luxury tax constraints. If Landale proves his worth with a standout season, Golden State could look to re-sign him at a similar value, securing a reliable rotation player for years to come.
To make the deal work, the Warriors might consider packaging young talent like Brandin Podziemski or other prospects in a trade. While parting with promising players is never easy, the immediate need for a dependable center could outweigh the long-term potential of their reserves. The Dubs are also banking on a breakout season from Trayce Jackson-Davis, but adding Landale would provide much-needed depth and versatility behind their primary bigs.
Landale’s fit with the Warriors goes beyond numbers. His experience, basketball IQ, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced system make him an ideal candidate to complement Golden State’s core. For Kerr, who values players capable of filling multiple roles, Landale offers a blend of shooting, playmaking, and rim protection that could elevate the team’s playoff aspirations.
As the Warriors aim to maximize the championship window of their veteran stars, landing a player like Landale could be the difference between a good season and a great one. With trade rumors swirling, all eyes are on Golden State’s front office to see if they can pull off a blockbuster move to address their center emergency before the season tips off.