NBA trade news: Golden State Warriors waive NCAA Champion Guard ahead of 2025-26 season - wise move or hasty mishap?

The Golden State Warriors have made another roster adjustment just before the start of the 2025-26 NBA season. Following the news of Seth Curry’s release, the team has officially parted ways with 24-year-old guard LJ Cryer, ending his short preseason run with the franchise.

Golden State Warriors’ Official Statement Regarding CJ Cryer

On Saturday afternoon, the Golden State Warriors confirmed their latest roster cuts. “The Golden State Warriors have waived guards LJ Cryer and Seth Curry,” the Dubs stated in their most recent news release.

Cryer joined the Golden State Warriors on September 29 after going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft. Despite showing flashes of potential during preseason, the 6-foot guard didn’t secure a spot on the team’s final roster.

LJ Cryer’s Preseason Performance

LJ Cryer appeared in five preseason games for Golden State, contributing solid minutes off the bench.

His averages reflected promise and efficiency in limited action.

One of his most notable showings came during the Golden State Warriors’ comeback win over the Portland Trail Blazers, where he scored 14 points while shooting an impressive 80% from the field and a perfect 100% from three-point range.

From Baylor to the Bay: Cryer’s Journey

Before entering the NBA, LJ Cryer made a name for himself as a lethal shooter at the collegiate level. A native of New Orleans, Louisiana, he first gained attention as part of Baylor University’s 2021 NCAA Championship-winning roster.

While Cryer wasn’t a primary scoring option as a freshman, his development over the following seasons turned him into one of college basketball’s most efficient guards.

His shooting prowess and composure under pressure helped him catch the Golden State Warriors’ eye, ultimately earning him a training camp deal following the NBA 2K26 Summer League.

A Tough Break for a Promising Prospect

Despite a solid effort in camp and preseason, Golden State ultimately decided that Cryer wasn’t ready for an opening-night roster spot.

The move leaves him searching for a new opportunity elsewhere in the league or overseas. Cryer appeared in five preseason games with Golden State, averaging 5.0 points, 1.8 assists, and 1.6 rebounds in 9.6 minutes per game.”LJ Cryer’s next step remains uncertain, but his shooting ability and experience as an NCAA champion could make him an attractive option for teams looking to add depth and scoring punch to their backcourt rotations.Also read: NBA Trade News: Indiana Pacers Sign #14 Overall 2015 Draft Pick to Bolster Squad Around Tyrese and Pascal for 2025-26 SeasonThe Golden State Warriors’ decision underscores how competitive roster spots have become, particularly for undrafted rookies like Cryer. While his time in Golden State was brief, his performance proved he can hold his own against NBA-level talent - something that may open doors for him in the near future.