Warriors can sign former Jimmy Butler teammate who just played in the NBA Finals

Thomas Bryant, a veteran stretch center, remains an unrestricted free agent despite recently playing rotation minutes for the Indiana Pacers in the NBA Finals. While Al Horford has been prominently linked to the Golden State Warriors, Bryant presents a potential alternative if that deal falls through.

Bryant spent 18 months with the Miami Heat before joining the Pacers in December, where he was teammates with current Warriors star Jimmy Butler. During the 2023-24 season, Butler assisted on more of Bryant's field goals than any other player, establishing familiarity between the two that could benefit Golden State.

Bryant became crucial for Indiana after backup centers Isaiah Jackson and James Wiseman suffered torn Achilles injuries. He appeared in 56 regular-season games, averaging 6.9 points and 3.9 rebounds on 51.5% shooting in 15 minutes per game. Though his playoff minutes dipped to eight per game, he contributed notable performances, including scoring 11 points with 3-of-4 three-point shooting in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals.

As a career 34.6% three-point shooter, Bryant showcased his floor-stretching ability during the playoffs by making 50% (9-of-18) of his three-point attempts. Despite this impact and Myles Turner's departure to Milwaukee, the Pacers have shown no interest in re-signing him, opting instead to retain Jackson and Wiseman, exercise Tony Bradley's option, and trade for Jay Huff.

While the Warriors are unlikely to pursue Bryant if they acquire Horford, he remains a viable free-agent target mentioned in connection with Golden State. His availability is worth monitoring as the offseason progresses.