What's Happening?
The Golden State Warriors have signed 21-year-old forward Alex Toohey to a two-way contract. Toohey, originally from Canberra, Australia, was part of a historic seven-team trade that included Kevin Durant. He was initially selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 52nd overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Toohey played for the Sydney Kings in Australia's National Basketball League (NBL) last season, where he averaged 10.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.3 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, earning the 2024-25 NBL Next Generation Award. He also participated in the Summer League with the Warriors, averaging 6.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game.
Why It's Important?
This signing is significant as it highlights the Warriors' strategy to develop young talent through two-way contracts, allowing players to gain experience in the G League while having opportunities to play in the NBA. Toohey's defensive versatility and high basketball IQ make him a promising addition to the team. The historic nature of the seven-team trade underscores the evolving dynamics of NBA team-building strategies, where multi-team trades are becoming more common to manage salary caps and player movements.
What's Next?
Toohey is expected to spend most of the 2025-26 season with the Santa Cruz Warriors, the G League affiliate of the Golden State Warriors. He will likely make appearances with the main team, especially when opportunities arise due to injuries or strategic rotations. His development in the G League will be crucial for his transition to a more permanent role in the NBA.
