De'Anthony Melton Returns to Warriors After ACL Tear, Eyes Special Season

De'Anthony Melton has officially returned to the Golden State Warriors, a reunion both sides eagerly anticipated after his brief but impactful six-game stint last season where the team went 4-2. His 2024-25 campaign was cut short in mid-November due to a torn ACL sustained against the Dallas Mavericks, requiring season-ending surgery. Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy expressed the team's desire to bring him back, a goal realized this Wednesday. While Melton is not yet medically cleared and is undergoing individual rehab, he is slated for re-evaluation in four weeks, sidelining him for the regular-season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. Melton, who was traded to the Brooklyn Nets last December to facilitate the acquisition of Dennis Schröder—a move that ultimately led to the Jimmy Butler trade—understood the business decision, stating, "I probably would have traded myself too." The veteran guard, who has played for the Rockets, Suns, Grizzlies, and 76ers, felt a strong connection to the Warriors, praising the medical and coaching staff. He is motivated by the potential of a healthy Warriors squad with Butler, believing they can be a "dangerous team" if they stay healthy.