Saltzman Says...Andris Biedrins trade makes sense, but...

Andris Biedrins has been, by far, the biggest disappointment for the Warriors over the last two years.  After a tough injury riddled season in Don Nelson's last season as the head coach, Biedrins came back in 2010 and had his worst season as an NBA player.  He became the worst free throw shooter in the league, and it became so bad, it affected him on both sides of the court.  He did not want to attack the basket with his quickness on the offensive end because he was afraid to get fouled. That lack of effort led to less time on the floor and damaged the overall team defense.  Biedrins has been the one decent rim defender on the roster over the last several years, and to lose his ability to block shots, defend the rim in general and grab rebounds, the team again was the worst defense in basketball.

All that being said, he is only 25 years old, and still has 5-7 years to maximize his potential.  Once a double double machine at 22 and 23, became a liability since signing an extension with the former regime.  The $27 million he is owed over the next three years suggests they would listen to offers for the Latvian center.  At the same time, the Warriors are not afraid to spend money.

Will Biedrins finally live up to his hefty contract?

Cost cutting moves appear to be a thing of the past.  The Warriors paid $2 million to bring in a third draft pick in Jeremy Tyler, and did not move Biedrins on draft night despite reportedly being offered two expiring contracts.  Two big men, Haseem Thabeet and Jordan Hill may have been offered for Biedrins.  Houston may have asked for draft picks as well, but neither big man Houston offered has shown any potential to be better than Biedrins.

This is not the chris cohan led Warriors anymore, and with bobby fowell finally fired, the Warriors now have a complete front office, filled with bright basketball minds.