With the trade deadline nearing, the Golden State Warriors (25-24, 11th in the Western Conference) are urgently seeking a star to boost their playoff chances. Led by Stephen Curry, they aim to make a game-changing move to stay in contention. Reports suggest they have inquired about multiple high-profile names, including LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Jimmy Butler, and Paul George. However, making a deal for any of these players presents significant financial and contractual hurdles.
One of the biggest obstacles for the Warriors is the NBA’s salary cap rules. They are hard-capped at the first apron, meaning they cannot take on more salary than they send out. This restriction makes it challenging to acquire a star like Butler, who is earning $48.8 million this season. To match salaries, the Warriors would likely need to include Andrew Wiggins ($26.3 million), Dennis Schröder ($13.0 million), and additional players like Gary Payton II ($9.1 million) or Kevon Looney ($8.0 million). Not only that, their ability to aggregate salaries for a larger contract only becomes available on the day before the trade deadline, further complicating their efforts.
The Warriors front office has also shown interest in Kevin Durant, who previously helped the team win two championships. While the Suns are at least listening to trade pitches, they reportedly have some interest in Jonathan Kuminga. However, landing Durant would be a costly move, requiring the Warriors to part with multiple assets. Meanwhile, their pursuit of LeBron James appears unlikely, as he holds a no-trade clause and has expressed his desire to stay with the Los Angeles Lakers. The Warriors have also explored acquiring Paul George from the Philadelphia 76ers, but there has been no indication that the Sixers are open to moving him.
Other Possible Trade Targets For The Warriors
If the Warriors fail to land a top-tier superstar, they may shift their focus to other All-Star-caliber players. One name to watch is Zion Williamson. Trade rumors now surround the former No. 1 overall pick. If the Warriors keep him healthy, he could change the game alongside Curry. The team also considers his Pelicans teammate, Brandon Ingram, who will hit free agency in the offseason. If New Orleans does not plan to re-sign him, Golden State could attempt to make a move before the deadline.
The Warriors also have draft capital that could be leveraged in a trade. They currently have the ability to offer up to two first-round picks and three first-round pick swaps. While it’s unclear whether they would be willing to part with these assets for a non-superstar, it gives them some flexibility in negotiations. The team traded for Schroder earlier this season, timing the deal strategically so they could include his contract in a potential trade before the deadline.
The Warriors feel urgent because of the championship window for their core players, especially Curry, who will soon turn 37. Their net rating in non-Curry minutes has been disastrous, and even when he’s on the floor, they have only been an average team. Given their struggles over the last 35 games, in which they’ve gone 14-21 with a minus-3.7 net rating, they clearly need reinforcements.
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