If Melton recovers this summer, Lakers and Warriors may become potential destinations for the defensive expert

According to the popular Vishvisha Kumar written by sports media F/W. D'Antoni Melton, who was injured last season, could be a hot spot in the league if he returns to form in 2025. As NBA free agents approach, the two most legendary teams in the league, the Lakers and the Warriors are reportedly pursuing one of the league’s most underrated defensive experts: D’Antoni Melton. Both teams are expected to undergo a major roster reshaping this offseason, and Melton's name has quietly become a low-cost, high-reward option.

The Warriors have identified Melton as a potential target, according to The Athletic's Anthony Slater. Meanwhile, Lakers insider Jowan Buha has developed a similar interest in the Purple and Gold Army, indicating that both teams are considering him as a backcourt supplement. Melton, who is only 26, meets a low-cost contract, but has proven two-way value. He was plagued by a torn ACL after playing only six games in 2024-25, during which time he averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game, shooting 40.7% from the field and 37.1% from three-pointers. After the injury, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets but didn't play for a minute.

Although concerns about durability persist, Melton's pre-injury record has given him a good potential next home for his comeback. He was a big part of them during the rise of the Memphis Grizzlies and later flourished with the Philadelphia Sixers, opening up a self-solid market as an outside shooter who can defend two defenders, shoot threes and contribute as a secondary playmaker.

His defensive versatility is his business card. Melton often defends the best outside threats on the opposing team, and his quick hands and off-ball consciousness make him a destructive force. For teams like the Lakers and Warriors, they both fight faster guards on the defensive end in the 2025 playoffs, adding players like Melton is both to address structural weaknesses and to refine their rotation. Financially, Melton made more than $12 million last season, but due to his injuries and lack of availability, he is expected to be much smaller this time. League insiders said he could sign a one- or two-year short-term "proof" contract in the hope of rebuilding his market value before he becomes a free agent again in a future season.

This may be ideal for competitors like the Lakers and Warriors. Any team can use part of their intermediate special or veteran minimum protocol with incentives to squeeze Melton into their plan. For the Golden State Warriors, he would be perfect for playing side by side with Curry and could replace some of the defensive energy lost in recent years. For the Lakers, Melton could take on a key bench role and even start with Doncic and James to provide Redick with much-needed outside defense.

Melton is probably one of the smartest signings this summer due to the extremely expensive market for elite 3D players. If he gets back, both the Lakers and the Warriors may see this as a silent move that brings a championship-level lineup puzzle.