Warriors waive Julian Washburn

The Golden State Warriors have waived forward Julian Washburn. The 6’8” Washburn was on a two-way contract with the Warriors.

Golden State acquired Washburn in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies. The Warriors received Washburn, who was on a two-way contract when the trade was made, in exchange for Andre Iguodala and a future first-round draft pick.

Washburn was acquired primarily because the Collective Bargaining Agreement states that there must be incoming and outgoing pieces in any trade, so the Warriors had to receive something. It never seemed like the team was particularly interested in Washburn, but Memphis needed to send something out, so the Warriors took a flier.

When the trade was announced, there were reports that the Warriors would waive Washburn immediately, and that he would return to the Grizzlies. That didn’t happen, as he instead joined Golden State’s Summer League squad.

Still, it always felt like the Warriors were planning on waiving Washburn. This will be his age-28 season, so he’s not a prospect the team can develop much. But he’s also unlikely to be able to contribute to the team this year, so he really didn’t fit anywhere.

The Warriors now have an open two-way spot. We’ll see if Damion Lee - who has been offered the spot - takes it. If not, the Warriors may look towards a young prospect.

Two-way contracts do not impact the salary cap, so there are no ramifications for the Warriors waiving Washburn.