The Golden State Warriors made a small move on Sunday to continue increasing their odds at the championship. The reigning champs signed former Cavaliers center Anderson Varejao off waivers. The team also released power forward Jason Thompson in order to clear the roster spot necessary.
Varejao, who has only played in 31 games this season, was recently traded by the Cavs to the Portland Trail Blazers in a money saving move. The Blazers promptly waived the big-man, leaving the door open for Varejao’s addition to the Warriors. The long-time Cavalier was also reportedly sought after by the San Antonio Spurs.
Age and injuries have impacted Varejao strongly and he is no longer the effective player he once was, averaging fewer than three points and rebounds per game in only ten minutes of playing time. However, the Warriors do not need much production from the center who will likely be the team’s sixth big man when healthy. However, with injuries to both Andrew Bogut and Festus Ezeli, Varejao may be asked to contribute some early in his Warriors tenure.
The move may be some gamesmanship from Golden State who will likely meet the Cavs in the Finals. While Varejao maynot contribute much on the court, he could potentially provide some help off of it in helping the Warriors beat their probable opponents. The Warriors may not need much help in that regard, having beaten this Cavaliers team multiple times, often by wide margins.
Nevertheless, the move signifies an ability by the Warriors to continue attempting to gain every possible advantage. The move may not move the needle by much, but its end result could at least include a ring for a 12th year veteran who was unable to get one in Cleveland.
