Warriors Add Promising Young Forward Just Before Training Camp

The Golden State Warriors finally broke their silence on Sunday. After a summer of waiting, stalled negotiations, and veteran commitments, the franchise unveiled a string of roster updates, among them the signing of one of its rookies.

According to Shams Charania, the Warriors have signed Alex Toohey to a two-way contract. The 21-year-old forward was selected with the No. 52 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft and now becomes part of a roster trying to balance experience with youth.

Who is Alex Toohey?

Toohey arrives from Australia’s Sydney Kings, where he carved out a reputation as a smart, slashing forward. At 6-foot-8, he’s got the size to compete right away, but it’s his instincts that jump out.

In two NBL seasons, he averaged 10.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.3 assists while shooting over 45% from the floor. The three-point stroke is still developing — 30% on modest volume — but the athleticism and feel are there.

He’s not a finished product. But he doesn’t need to be.

What This Means for the Warriors

The Warriors have quietly filled out the bottom of the roster. Toohey joins fellow rookie Will Richard on a guaranteed deal, alongside veterans Al Horford, Gary Payton II, and De’Anthony Melton.

Horford is expected to anchor the frontcourt with his leadership and championship pedigree. Payton remains a trusted defensive spark. Melton gives the backcourt more bite. Together, they bring stability. Toohey and Richard bring possibility.

The bigger story remains Jonathan Kuminga. He has yet to sign, won’t be at media day, and continues to push for contract terms that reflect his future role. Until that’s solved, every Warriors move comes with a “what’s next?” attached.

Can Kerr Trust the Rookies?

Steve Kerr, Golden State Warriors

Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty ImagesSteve Kerr, Golden State Warriors

That’s the question. Head coach Steve Kerr has always leaned on veterans during championship runs, but he’s shown more willingness to trust youth. Two seasons ago, rookie Brandin Podziemski earned real minutes. Last year, it was Quinten Post who carved out a role.

Alex Toohey could be next. As a second-unit energy piece, he has the tools to thrive next to Stephen Curry. Curry’s gravity creates spacing, and Toohey’s cutting and slashing give him easy lanes to the rim — where his strength and touch can finish plays.

For Toohey, the most realistic starting point is Santa Cruz. Most Warriors rookies spend extended time in the G League, and that’s likely where he’ll get his first real minutes as he adjusts to NBA speed and physicality. If he holds his own, the hope is he can work his way into spot minutes with the big club, giving Golden State hustle and energy off the bench.

The ceiling is more intriguing. With his size and instincts, Toohey has the chance to grow into a versatile two-way weapon. He could one day back up Jimmy Butler and, depending on how the Kuminga situation plays out, even push for those minutes too. That kind of flexibility is exactly what the Warriors need as they balance a veteran core with the next wave of contributors.

What’s Next for the Warriors

This offseason hasn’t been flashy. But it’s been steady. Veterans in. Rookies secured. The core intact.

Toohey just needs to prove he belongs. If he can, the Warriors may have uncovered another hidden gem — the kind of depth piece that strengthens their push for another championship in the Curry era.

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