Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) and guard Stephen Curry (30) share a laugh during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center. (Image via D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images) The Golden State Warriors are reportedly considering the return of Harrison Barnes ahead of the 2025 NBA preseason to strengthen their roster for a championship push. Barnes, a key player on the Warriors’ 2015 title team, is currently with the San Antonio Spurs but holds an expiring $19 million contract, making him a potential trade target as Golden State looks to bolster its lineup around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler.
Warriors Eye Potential Reunion with Harrison Barnes
According to Blue Man Hoop’s Josh Cornelissen, Harrison Barnes could provide the Warriors with valuable two-way contributions if the franchise decides to bring him back.“Filling the Andrew Wiggins role years beforehand, Harrison Barnes had his down moments with the Warriors but also played a key role in their explosion into a dynasty,” Cornelissen said Wednesday.Harrison Barnes, a six-foot-eight forward, played for Golden State from 2012 to 2016 and was part of the team’s 2015 championship run. During his four-year stint with the Dubs, he averaged 10.1 points per game, helping set the stage for the dynasty that followed.
Current Golden State Warriors Free Agency Outlook
Before addressing Barnes, the Golden State Warriors are rumored to be targeting several free agents as they sort out their roster:
Possible Targets
Harrison Barnes of the Spurs (Image via Getty)
• Al Horford • De’Anthony Melton • Gary Payton II • Seth CurryOnce the Jonathan Kuminga situation is resolved, the Warriors are expected to still have roster spots available. This makes a Barnes reunion not only possible but also logical given their needs.
Why Barnes Fits the Warriors Again
Barnes’ skill set aligns with what Golden State currently lacks. His shooting and defensive versatility make him an ideal complement in small, switch-heavy lineups alongside Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green. This combination could even pave the way for a modern version of the Warriors’ famed “death lineup.”
Barnes’ Key Contributions
TeamYearsPPG AverageNotable Role Golden State Warriors 2012–2016 10.1 Starter on 2015 championship team Dallas Mavericks 2016–2019 18.7 Established himself as elite role player
The Forward Depth Issue
Golden State’s forward rotation is thin beyond Draymond Green, which further highlights the potential value of bringing Barnes back. Jonathan Kuminga has made it clear he wants out, and without him, the Golden State Warriors lack reliable depth at the position.
Why a Reunion Makes Sense
Harrison Barnes may not be a superstar, but he remains a steady player who can impact both ends of the court. His history with Golden State, combined with his proven scoring stretch in Dallas, makes him an attractive candidate for a return.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Why the Los Angeles Lakers Could Hold Back on a $250 Million Deal for Austin Reaves Ahead of PreseasonIf Kuminga parts ways with the Golden State Warriors, reuniting with one of their 2015 championship contributors could be exactly what the team needs to strengthen its roster and rediscover some of its old magic.