Warriors' Trade Tiers: Navigating a Fading Dynasty
The Warriors' trade deadline approaches, and Mike Dunleavy's third as general manager is shaping up like the first two. With a 22-19 record, Golden State is an average team with a chance to play meaningful basketball in April and May. The Warriors are hard-capped at the second apron, just slightly below, meaning they can't take back more salary than they send out. They have three future first-round picks and three swaps to offer.
Here's a breakdown of potential trade targets and players to watch:
The Inevitable Trade: Jonathan Kuminga
The Kuminga saga is reaching its climax. With the Warriors' plans shifting, Kuminga and his tradeable contract are their last chance to bolster their veteran lineup. If he's still on the team by February 6, it would be a major organizational failure. Teams might be interested, but the question remains: who will take him?
The Affordable Option: Buddy Hield
Hield, a sharpshooter with a history of trades, is on a cheap, partially guaranteed contract. He was a hero last year in Game 7, but his shooting percentage has dropped this year. Despite his value, Hield might be a trade chip to aggregate salary.
Legitimate Trade Chips: Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski
Moody, the Warriors' best perimeter defender, and Podziemski, their most promising under-23 player, are both valuable assets. Moody's team-friendly deal and versatility make him a sought-after player. Podziemski, with his 40% shooting from 3, is a reliable role player. However, neither has become indispensable yet.
Hot Properties: Quinten Post, Al Horford, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Will Richard, and Gui Santos
These players, with salaries ranging from $1.2 million to $5.7 million, are affordable rotation players. In the current era, such players are valuable, akin to Bitcoin in 2017. Teams might be interested, but their roles in the Warriors' best-case scenario make them less likely to be traded.
Safe Bets: Gary Payton II, De'Anthony Melton, and Seth Curry
Melton, Curry, and Payton are essential to the Warriors' success. Melton's health and ability to close games make him a key player. Curry and Payton, with their unique skill sets, are not easily replaceable. Their value to the Warriors is such that they might not be traded unless it's a significant upgrade.
Untouchables: Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green
The Warriors have no plans to trade Butler or Green. Green, a 14-year veteran, is a cornerstone of the franchise, complementing Curry perfectly. Butler, a 36-year-old superstar, has been a key player this season. Only a significant offer might change their minds.
The Unmovable Star: Steph Curry
Curry, a Warrior for life, is not going anywhere. His desire to spend his entire career in Golden State is well-known, and it's unlikely to change soon.
