The Golden State Warriors have fared better than anyone would have imagined to start the 2024-25 NBA season, holding a 12-5 record due to excellent play from the entire roster. However, despite their strong start, there are major doubts about the team’s ability to usurp the likes of the Oklahoma City Thunder, Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Minnesota Timberwolves over a seven-game series.
To truly become the favorite in the Western Conference, the Warriors might want to make the right move for the right player to give Stephen Curry, Andrew Wiggins, and Draymond Green a star talent to trust, especially for the postseason. The Warriors will have to move carefully to build a strong title contender since they are just under the first tax apron, but we have seven intriguing trade ideas for them to consider.
An Upgrade With Myles Turner
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Myles Turner
Indiana Pacers Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis, 2027 First-Round Pick
Adding Myles Turner would provide the Warriors with a much-needed defensive anchor and a legitimate interior presence. Turner is one of the best shot-blockers in the league, averaging 1.9 blocks per game this season, and his ability to stretch the floor (42.0% 3-point shooting this season) makes him an ideal fit for Golden State’s offense. His rim protection would allow Draymond Green to focus on playmaking and defensive versatility, while his ability to shoot from deep would keep the Warriors’ spacing intact, enabling Stephen Curry to thrive offensively.
Trading for Turner would also address Golden State’s rebounding woes. The team has struggled on the boards, ranking near the bottom of the league in rebound differential. Turner, who grabbed 7.3 rebounds per game this season, could help bridge that gap while fitting seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s system, which emphasizes movement and unselfish play. His veteran presence would make the Warriors formidable against big men like Nikola Jokic, Chet Holmgren, Anthony Davis, and Julius Randle.
The Pacers could be intrigued by this deal because it offers them a chance to pivot toward a younger, more versatile core. Jonathan Kuminga, a former lottery pick, has shown flashes of star potential with his athleticism and defensive upside, while Trayce Jackson-Davis brings additional frontcourt depth and promise. Adding a 2027 first-round pick gives Indiana a valuable future asset, making this trade attractive as they continue to build around Tyrese Haliburton and Pascal Siakam.
Smart Move For Cameron Johnson
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Cameron Johnson
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney
Cameron Johnson is an ideal target for Golden State, offering a combination of shooting, size, and defensive versatility on the wing. Johnson is currently shooting 43.1% from three-point range, making him an invaluable floor spacer alongside Stephen Curry and Buddy Hield. With Klay Thompson’s departure, the Warriors need consistent shooters, and Johnson fits the bill with his ability to hit from deep and run off screens.
Defensively, Johnson brings size at 6’8”, which would help against perimeter scorers and small-ball lineups. His ability to switch onto multiple positions aligns well with Golden State’s defensive philosophy. Johnson also has playoff experience with the Suns, including a 2021 Finals run, which would benefit a Warriors squad looking to maximize their championship window. Adding him would bolster both ends of the floor without disrupting the team’s chemistry.
The Nets might consider this trade to diversify their roster and acquire depth. Jonathan Kuminga’s athleticism and two-way potential align well with Brooklyn’s young core, while Gary Payton II provides elite perimeter defense and championship experience. Kevon Looney, one of the NBA’s most consistent rebounders, would address Brooklyn’s frontcourt needs and help solidify their rebounding and defensive efforts. This move also allows the Nets to clear cap space for future flexibility while gaining a promising young talent in Kuminga.
Boosting Perimeter Defense With Herbert Jones
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Herbert Jones
New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody
Herbert Jones could elevate the Warriors’ defense to new heights with his elite perimeter defense and versatility. Jones averaged 1.4 steals per game last season (1.8 in four appearances this season), showcasing his ability to disrupt passing lanes and guard multiple positions. His hustle and energy would make him an instant fan favorite at Chase Center, while his cutting and transition play would complement Golden State’s motion-heavy offense.
Jones’ ability to guard star forwards like Kevin Durant and LeBron James makes him a valuable addition for a team looking to contend in a stacked Western Conference. While his shooting will only get better (41.8% from three last season), his defensive prowess more than compensates. Plugging Jones into the starting lineup alongside Draymond Green would give the Warriors a defensive backbone to counter high-octane offenses in the playoffs.
The Pelicans could accept this trade because Jonathan Kuminga offers significant upside with his raw athleticism and versatility, aligning with their young core of Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Moses Moody is another enticing piece, as his shooting and defense complement their roster needs. This deal would also give New Orleans more offensive firepower, which they’ve lacked at times, while alleviating the financial burden of future extensions for their role players.
Backup Target With Clint Capela
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Clint Capela
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, Kevon Looney, 2026 Second-Round Pick (ATL), 2028 Second-Round Pick (ATL)
Clint Capela would address the Warriors’ glaring need for rebounding and rim protection. The 30-year-old big man is averaging 8.3 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game this season with the Hawks, making him one of the league’s most reliable interior players. Capela’s elite rebounding would give Golden State second-chance opportunities on offense and help mitigate their defensive vulnerabilities in the paint.
Capela’s ability to finish around the rim (62.6% shooting from the field) also fits perfectly in the Warriors’ offensive system, especially with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green’s ability to create easy looks for teammates. While Capela isn’t a floor-spacer, his athleticism and defensive instincts would be invaluable, particularly in matchups against teams with dominant centers like Denver and Minnesota.
Atlanta may consider this trade because it allows them to offload Capela’s salary while acquiring valuable depth pieces. Gary Payton II and Moses Moody provide the Hawks with defensive grit and shooting, fitting into a faster, more dynamic playing style. Kevon Looney’s rebounding and screen-setting would soften the blow of losing Capela, while the additional second-round picks give Atlanta assets to use in future moves. This trade also creates more playing time for Onyeka Okongwu, their promising young center.
Get More Athletic With Nic Claxton
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Nic Claxton
Brooklyn Nets Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney
Nic Claxton of the Brooklyn Nets is a younger, more versatile option for Golden State’s frontcourt. Claxton is a key player for the Nets this season, averaging 8.5 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 70.5% from the field. His mobility and ability to defend guards on switches make him an intriguing addition to the Warriors’ switch-heavy defensive schemes.
Offensively, Claxton thrives as a lob threat and screen-setter, which would amplify Stephen Curry’s pick-and-roll game. At only 25 years old, he fits the Warriors’ timeline both for immediate contention and long-term success. Claxton’s relentless energy and high basketball IQ would provide Golden State with a dynamic presence in the paint to complement their perimeter-oriented attack.
The Nets might accept this trade because it offers an opportunity to add significant talent and reshape their roster. Jonathan Kuminga would bring much-needed scoring and defensive versatility to a team in transition, while Gary Payton II and Kevon Looney provide depth and experience. This move also positions Brooklyn to pursue more offensive-minded bigs in free agency while acquiring assets to complement Cam Thomas.
Acquire Dillon Brooks For An Edge On Defense
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Dillon Brooks
Houston Rockets Receive: Gary Payton II, Kyle Anderson, Moses Moody, 2027 First-Round Pick
Dillon Brooks would bring tenacity and toughness to a Warriors team that could use a defensive-minded wing. Brooks is averaging 12.6 points per game this season while being one of the league’s most physical defenders, often guarding the opposing team’s best scorer. His ability to get under players’ skin would provide a mental edge in key playoff matchups.
Even when Brooks is known for his confidence, his offensive efficiency (39.4% from three-point range) has followed suit this season. However, Golden State’s system, centered around Curry’s gravity and ball movement, could help Brooks take smarter shots. His defensive intensity and willingness to embrace a complementary role would make him a valuable piece in the Warriors’ quest to reclaim the title.
Houston might find this trade appealing because it allows them to acquire younger assets and a valuable first-round pick while moving Dillon Brooks’ significant salary. Gary Payton II and Moses Moody offer strong defensive capabilities, with Moody adding shooting potential that fits the Rockets’ rebuilding timeline. Kyle Anderson provides a veteran presence and versatile playmaking, giving Houston more flexibility in their roster construction without sacrificing their future.
A Low-Risk Gamble For Marcus Smart
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Marcus Smart
Memphis Grizzlies Receive: Gary Payton II, De’Anthony Melton, 2026 Second-Round Pick (ATL), 2028 Second-Round Pick (ATL), 2029 Second-Round Pick (GSW)
Marcus Smart would be a game-changing addition to Golden State, bringing his 2022 Defensive Player of the Year pedigree and playoff experience to the squad. Smart is averaging 7.3 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.1 steals per game this season while providing invaluable leadership for the Grizzlies. His ability to play both guard positions would give the Warriors another playmaker and defensive stopper alongside Stephen Curry.
Marcus Smart’s grit and willingness to do the dirty work align perfectly with the Warriors’ championship DNA. He thrives in high-pressure situations, as evidenced by his performances in deep playoff runs with Boston. Smart’s addition would give Golden State another weapon to deploy against elite Western Conference guards like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Anthony Edwards, and Jamal Murray, solidifying their status as true title contenders.
Memphis could entertain this trade as it brings roster balance and financial flexibility. De’Anthony Melton, a former Grizzly, is an efficient, defensive-minded guard who fits their system, while Gary Payton II adds championship experience and defensive versatility. The package of second-round picks provides Memphis with additional assets for future moves, and they can create more development opportunities for Desmond Bane and other young players. Trading Smart allows Memphis to focus on building around Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. for the long term.
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