Sam Presti in all likelihood will match Andre Roberson in restricted free agency because he’s a valuable piece moving forward. The model in the league has changed, being able to morph into small ball lineups is a must in the West where Golden State and Houston throw small lineups at you constantly.
Players like Enes Kanter and Taj Gibson aren’t nearly as valuable as players like Steven Adams, Andre Roberson, and Jerami Grant who can defend multiple positions.
Golden State didn’t just beat the Cavs in five games because they can score the ball. They are the best team in the league because when they need to they can clamp down and defend as well as any team in the league.
Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, Kevin Durant, and Andre Iguodala are all versatile defenders. Sam Presti knows this and is trying to retool his team in this direction. Paul George is an excellent defender. Same with Andre Roberson. Jerami Grant can defend multiple positions. Steven Adams is a very mobile defensive center. When Russell Westbrook wants to he can be a lockdown defender as well. That’s five very solid defensive players Billy Donovan will have at his disposal this season as he tries to find a way to deal with the Golden State juggernaut.
It’s what makes Golden State so tough beyond having the best three shooters in the game. They play defense.