Andre Iguodala has been smiling a lot. He’s been smiling much more than you’d expect for a player who was suddenly snatched from competition by injury and forced to watch elimination games in a suit.



It would be a safe bet that a fraction of why Iguodala can smile through this is the validation he is receiving. Missing these six games, especially Games 6 and 7 in the Western Conference finals, has underscored Iguodala’s value — many believe the series wouldn’t have gone the distance if he didn’t get hurt. It’s given new context to his three-year, $48 million contract, which Iguodala had to maneuver to get from the Warriors. His value to the Warriors has never been more clear, which has to be quite the chaser.



But his current peace was intentionally pursued, a perspective born of wisdom and maturity. He knows how to ward of the anguish of missing out — coaching up youngsters, hanging with the family. More time with...