Last week, the NBA rumor mill lit up with whispers that the Golden State Warriors are circling back to a familiar face: De’Anthony Melton, the 27-year-old combo guard who briefly donned their jersey before a devastating injury cut his season short. Reports from Marc Stein and Jake Fischer dubbed the Warriors a “strong contender” to re-sign Melton, while eagle-eyed fans noticed he’s started following the team on Instagram—a subtle but telling hint. The question isn’t whether the Warriors want him back; it’s whether they can pull off what could be a stunning reunion.
Let’s rewind. Last offseason, the Warriors saw Melton as a missing puzzle piece. Signed to a one-year deal, he dazzled in just six games, showcasing a seamless fit alongside Steph Curry. His tenacious defense, high basketball IQ, and knack for playmaking off the bench had Steve Kerr and Mike Dunleavy Jr. nodding in approval. Melton meshed effortlessly with Curry and Draymond Green, earning their respect with his toughness and selfless play. His shooting stretched the floor, and his ability to run the second unit gave Golden State a spark they desperately needed. Then, tragedy struck: a torn ACL ended his season, and the Warriors made a tough call.
In a move that was all business, the Warriors traded Melton, Reece Beekman, and three second-round picks to the Brooklyn Nets for Dennis Schröder and a second-rounder. Later, they flipped Schröder’s contract in a deal for Jimmy Butler III. It wasn’t shady or underhanded—Melton was out for the year, and the Warriors needed immediate help. But being salary-dumped stings, even for a pro who gets the business side of basketball. Most players would harbor resentment, but Melton? He seems to have let it slide, rehabbing quietly and keeping the door open for a Warriors reunion.
That brings us to the burning question: can Golden State make this happen? And more importantly, should they? The answer to the latter is a resounding yes. Melton’s brief stint proved he’s a near-perfect fit. His defensive grit and ability to guard multiple positions shore up a backcourt that still leans heavily on Curry. His playmaking lets him helm the second unit, freeing Curry from carrying the offense alone. And his shooting—oh, that shooting—adds a dimension the Warriors can’t afford to lose. In just six games, Melton showed he could thrive in Kerr’s system, picking up the playbook like he’d been there for years.
Jimmy Butler’s arrival has eased some of the Warriors’ reliance on Curry, but the team still needs a reliable guard to steady the ship, especially if Curry misses time again. Brandin Podziemski’s third season is generating buzz, but his skillset isn’t built to run an offense under pressure. The Warriors need a veteran presence—a high-quality combo guard who can defend, create, and knock down shots. Enter Melton, who checks every box and then some.
The Warriors thought Melton was their guy last offseason, and six games only confirmed it. Now, with the guard position still a question mark, he remains the ideal solution. Dunleavy and Kerr must be willing to do whatever it takes—whether it’s navigating the salary cap, sweet-talking Melton’s camp, or outbidding other suitors. The Instagram follow is a sign; the buzz from Stein and Fischer is a signal. Melton’s not just a feel-good story of redemption—he’s a strategic move that could elevate Golden State back to contender status.
This isn’t about sentimentality; it’s about seizing a rare second chance. The Warriors need to make this blockbuster reunion happen, because players like Melton don’t come around often. Six games, zero playoff minutes, and one brutal injury later, Melton’s still the answer. Golden State, it’s time to close the deal.