Warriors Sign G League Rookie & Thunder Forward | NBA News

Warriors Waive Rookie Alex Toohey, Sign Malevy Leons to Two-Way Contract

The Golden State Warriors have made roster adjustments, releasing Australian rookie forward Alex Toohey and simultaneously adding Dutch forward Malevy Leons on a two-way contract, according to reports from “ESPN” reporter Anthony Slater.

The move marks the end of Toohey’s brief stint with the association after being selected with the 59th overall pick in the second round of this year’s NBA draft. The 21-year-old forward, standing at 6 feet 8 inches (approximately 203 centimeters), previously played for the sydney Kings of the Australian Professional Basketball Association (NBL), where he averaged 10.6 points and 4.0 rebounds per game while shooting 44.9% from the field and 31% from three-point range.

Did you know? – Two-way contracts allow players to split time between the NBA team and their G League affiliate, providing development opportunities while offering roster versatility.

Toohey’s opportunity to showcase his skills in the Warriors’ system was limited by a knee injury that sidelined him for the entire season. He appeared in only two G League games this year,posting averages of 7 points,3 rebounds,and 5 assists in 19.6 minutes per game. ultimately, the Warriors opted to part ways with the young Australian talent.

In a corresponding move, the Warriors have brought in 26-year-old Malevy Leons. The 6-foot-9 (approximately 206 centimeters) forward initially signed with the oklahoma City Thunder as an undrafted player in 2024.He saw limited action with the Thunder last season, appearing in 6 games and averaging just 3.5 minutes per contest.

Pro tip: – NBA teams often utilize the waiver wire to adjust rosters based on performance, injuries, and team needs, especially during the regular season.

this season, Leons has demonstrated his potential in the G league, playing for the Thunder’s affiliate team. In 12 games, including 10 starts, he has averaged 14.8 points, 7.6 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 1.75 steals, and 1 blocked shot per game, showcasing remarkable efficiency with a 51.3% field goal percentage and a 43.8% three-point shooting percentage.

The addition of Leons provides the Warriors with added depth and versatility as they navigate the remainder of the season. The team is clearly prioritizing players who can immediately contribute at the G league level and perhaps develop into valuable assets for the future.

Reader question: – Do you think adding a G League-proven player is a better strategy then continuing to develop a draft pick with injury concerns?