The Golden State Warriors are reportedly zeroing in on a backup point guard ahead of free agency, and the names being linked to the franchise carry significant implications for one of the team’s most unlikely success stories.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Golden State is eyeing Anfernee Simons and Collin Sexton as potential targets. If the pursuit materializes into a signing, it would almost certainly mark the end of Pat Spencer’s tenure with the organization.
Spencer’s journey from elite lacrosse player to NBA rotation contributor has been one of the most compelling underdog narratives in recent years. Yet the Warriors, a franchise with championship aspirations and a rapidly aging core, appear ready to prioritize proven offensive production over sentimental value.
A Career Year Met With Uncertainty
Spencer was on the brink of leaving the Warriors last season after Taran Armstrong declined a two-way contract and opted for an overseas opportunity. He ultimately survived, finishing the year on the main roster and appearing in eight playoff games. However, his return this past season was far from guaranteed—he had to wait until media day before securing another two-way deal.
Once given the opportunity, Spencer capitalized. Despite the two-way status, he appeared in 66 games, averaging more than 18 minutes per night. He posted career highs across all major statistical categories, carving out a role amid a wave of injuries that plagued the Warriors’ backcourt.
Still, the 29-year-old’s development, while inspiring, may not align with the team’s immediate competitive needs.
Offensive Spark Needed
With Stephen Curry now 38 years old and coming off a season in which he missed 27 consecutive games, the Warriors require more reliability and scoring punch from the guard position. Jimmy Butler’s recovery from a torn ACL adds another layer of uncertainty to the roster’s offensive ceiling.
Both Simons and Sexton offer exactly the kind of upgrade the front office appears to be seeking. Each has multiple seasons averaging over 20 points per game and brings significantly more NBA experience and proven production than Spencer. While the duo may be younger, their track records as scorers make them far more attractive options in a win-now environment.
The interest in high-level free agents signals that the Warriors view the backup point guard spot as one that needs a clear upgrade in offensive creation—something Spencer, for all his improvements, has yet to demonstrate at an elite level.
Slim Hopes for a Return
Spencer’s most realistic path back to Golden State would be on yet another two-way contract. With Curry’s age and injury history, there is a logical argument for carrying a third point guard. However, even that scenario looks precarious.
The Warriors already have LJ Cryer on the roster—a younger prospect with higher upside and more developmental runway. Bringing Spencer back on a two-way for a second time after he had already graduated to the main roster would be unconventional and, given the team’s direction, unlikely.
The End of a Feel-Good Story?
Pat Spencer’s rise remains a testament to perseverance and adaptability. Few players transition from a different sport at a high level and earn meaningful NBA minutes, let alone playoff appearances. But professional basketball is ultimately a results business, and the Warriors are signaling they need more from the position.
As free agency approaches, the whispers around Simons and Sexton may soon become official moves. For Spencer, that could mean a quiet, yet definitive, farewell from the Bay Area.