Warriors backed into a corner after latest free agency losses

In less than 24 hours, the Warriors have lost both Gary Payton II and Otto Porter Jr. What does that means for their free agency outlook?

The son of an NBA great made his career in Golden State, where he received an opportunity in the G League and made the most of it. The Dubs, at one point, offered him a job as a video assistant. Payton II wanted more than that, and made good on his promise.

Now an NBA Champion, the world-class defender will always be loved by The Bay. But the sad truth is that he outplayed his value.

Golden State’s young core is all too important to its next phase. Payton II could’ve been a part of that, but not at the price Portland paid him.

On top of losing Payton II, the Dubs will also be without Otto Porter Jr., who is headed to Toronto on a two-year deal.

Warriors backed into a corner

Winning a Championship takes time, effort and depth — the third of which was something the Dubs had a lot of this past season. Drafting well and developing that talent is arguably something Golden State does better than anyone else in the NBA.

With Payton II and Porter Jr. now off the table, Golden State’s attention turns to Kevon Looney, Andrew Wiggins and Jordan Poole. Losing even two of those three depth pieces would represent a major defeat for the Warriors in free agency, especially after letting Payton II and Porter Jr. walk.

Unfortunately, Golden State had very little time to celebrate its championship run. All three of Wiggins, Poole and Looney made major strides last season on their way to winning an NBA Title. All three, of course, would likely receive lucrative deals elsewhere because of it.

The Dubs do have some money to play with. It’s unlikely they lose all three players. But replacing a core advertised as the future of the organization is easier said than done.

What Joe Lacob and Co. do next could have major implications on the Western Conference outlook moving forward.