TITLE: Warriors Secure Payton II and Melton; Banchero Welcomes New-Look Magic Spotlight; 76ers Route Bagley to Blue Coats
SLUG: warriors-payton-ii-magic-banchero-sixers-bagley-roster
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Warriors
The Golden State Warriors have reached agreements with free-agent guards Gary Payton II and De’Anthony Melton, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania. Both players are set to return for the 2025-26 season, joining fellow veteran Al Horford, who was previously locked in.
The front office still faces its most significant offseason decision: restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. Negotiations with the forward have stalled as the organization prioritizes future salary-cap flexibility.
Golden State also finalized a deal with second-round pick Will Richard. Agents for the No. 56 overall selection told ESPN the rookie has signed a four-year contract that includes two fully guaranteed seasons.
Magic
No. 1 overall pick in 2022 and reigning Rookie of the Year Paolo Banchero said he is ready for heightened expectations in Orlando after the franchise’s busy summer. The Magic acquired sharpshooter Desmond Bane from the Grizzlies in a blockbuster that sent Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Cole Anthony and four first-round picks to Memphis.
“As a competitor, you want to be expected to be great,” Banchero told The Athletic’s Josh Robbins. The forward admitted he was “stunned” when news of the Bane trade broke, but quickly grew excited about pairing with the guard. He also praised newcomer Tyus Jones for his court vision and leadership.
76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers signed and immediately waived forward Marcus Bagley on Sunday. The procedural move positions Bagley to rejoin the Delaware Blue Coats, where he can earn a bonus of up to $85,300 by remaining with the G League affiliate for 60 days.
Bagley, the younger brother of Marvin Bagley III, averaged 9.3 points and 7.1 rebounds with the Blue Coats last season and appeared in 10 games for Philadelphia. His brief stint brings the Sixers back to the maximum 21-player offseason roster while the club continues to navigate restricted free agency with guard Quentin Grimes.
Source: Hoops Wire
