Warriors Part Ways with Braxton Key as He Joins Memphis Grizzlies
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NBA, change is a constant. The Golden State Warriors have recently solidified their roster with the additions of Jonathan Kuminga, Al Horford, Seth Curry, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II. As a result, Braxton Key’s brief tenure with the Warriors has come to a close.
Key, a versatile 6-foot-8 forward, initially joined the Warriors on a two-way contract this past March. His performance left a positive impression, leading to a promotion to a standard contract in mid-April. However, despite his accolades, including a G League championship with the Delaware Blue Coats in 2023 and being named Defensive Player of the Year with the Memphis Hustle last season, Key struggled to make a significant impact during his time in Golden State.
Limited Impact on the Court
During the 2024-25 season, Key’s contributions were minimal. He averaged just one point and 0.7 rebounds across three appearances, logging only 3.7 minutes per game. His postseason performance mirrored this trend, where he managed to add a mere 0.4 points and 1.8 rebounds in five playoff contests. The lack of production ultimately signaled that Key’s role with the Warriors was diminishing.
In light of the Warriors’ roster decisions, it became clear that the organization was ready to move forward without him. Recognizing this shift, Key signed a training camp deal with the Memphis Grizzlies last Wednesday, indicating his determination to find new opportunities.
A New Chapter in Memphis
Key’s move to Memphis opens up fresh possibilities. As a former member of the G-League All-Defensive Team, he possesses the skill set that could allow him to carve out a niche within the Grizzlies’ lineup. If he can adapt quickly and find his rhythm in the NBA, Key may enhance his chances of establishing a long-term presence in the league.
As the NBA offseason progresses, the story of Braxton Key serves as a reminder of the relentless nature of professional basketball. With new beginnings on the horizon, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how Key’s journey unfolds in Memphis.
