Stephen Curry knows that the Golden State Warriors have underperformed this season, comparing them to the 2021-22 championship side that flew under the radar and still ended up as an NBA champion. While that is a hopeful statement, it is obvious that this roster isn’t constructed to win an NBA championship. Losing Klay Thompson in free agency before the season signaled a changing of the guard, and acquiring the likes of Dennis Schroder in the middle of the season has not changed the team’s trajectory.
It is obvious that the Warriors are struggling on the court, ranking 20th in scoring (111.3 PPG) and 18th in offensive rating (112.2). There have been many examples of ugly performances this season, especially against the Boston Celtics earlier this week which led to Curry calling out the entire team, and Warriors fans are clamoring for change.
There have been contradictory statements made by Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in recent weeks, sharing that the Warriors’ front office should try to avoid desperate trades to improve the roster to destroy the future, but also how the leaders of the team simply won’t accept middling on an average side. Essentially, time is of the essence for the Warriors because a 37-year-old Curry cares about the franchise but also cares about winning his 5th NBA championship.
While we might believe that Curry will never ask to leave Golden State, at least according to Steve Kerr, it doesn’t mean that every other player is off the hook. Rather, everyone could be made available to bring reinforcements to the team because, despite the poor play, the Warriors are only 4.0 games behind the 4th seed. Let’s dive into the Warriors’ potential targets before the February 6th trade deadline.
Jimmy Butler
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2027 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Jimmy Butler, on a $48.8M salary this season with a $52.4M player option next season, is the kind of two-way superstar who thrives in high-pressure situations like the Warriors are in right now. The 35-year-old forward is averaging 17.0 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 4.8 APG, and 1.1 SPG while shooting 54.0% from the field in a season filled with distractions.
It is clear that the situation in Miami has gone from bad to worse because the player is on his second stint of suspension by the franchise who are looking to get rid of him as soon as possible. The Heat’s asking offer for Butler is clear, and the Warriors might be able to match up to what they need.
No matter the baggage that comes with Butler’s presence on an NBA franchise, his defensive intensity and ability to close games would be invaluable for the Warriors, who lack a killer instinct on both ends of the floor this season. Butler’s leadership and playoff pedigree make him an ideal fit alongside Steph Curry, who needs a co-star with championship-level experience.
The proposed trade, however, strips Golden State of essential pieces. Andrew Wiggins ($26.3M), in a decent 2024-25 season (17.1 PPG, 4.6 RPG), is a versatile two-way player who fits the Warriors’ system. Gary Payton II’s perimeter defense and Kevon Looney’s rebounding (6.8 RPG) and screen-setting are pivotal to the team’s identity. Sacrificing all that, plus two first-round picks, is a massive gamble, but Butler’s proven ability to thrive in big moments could justify the price.
If Golden State pulls the trigger, they instantly vault back into championship contention. Butler provides toughness, a go-to scorer, and a defensive anchor. However, the trade comes with risk—Butler’s age and injury history could make his large salary a long-term burden, but the Warriors might have to take a gamble to make use of Stephen Curry’s presence.
Kevin Durant
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Kevin Durant
Phoenix Suns Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, Kevon Looney, Lindy Waters III, 2025 First-Round Pick (GSW), 2029 First-Round Pick (GSW)
A reunion with Kevin Durant feels like a Hollywood script and that is why we floated this idea of a massive trade proposal earlier in the month. Durant, earning $51.2M this season and $54.7M next season, is still playing at a superstar-caliber level, averaging 27.2 PPG, 6.4 RPG, and 4.1 APG on an absurd 52.4% shooting from the field.
He remains one of the most efficient scorers in NBA history and would seamlessly fit back into Golden State’s motion offense. Pairing Durant with Curry instantly transforms the Warriors into a nightmare for opposing defenses, especially in high-stakes playoff matchups.
The price is steep, though. Andrew Wiggins, Jonathan Kuminga, and Buddy Hield are the Warriors’ best trade assets, and losing Looney’s size would leave a massive hole in the frontcourt. Furthermore, mortgaging two future first-round picks limits Golden State’s ability to replenish the roster in the post-Curry era. Durant’s injury history also looms large, especially with his hefty salary extending into his late 30s.
If the Warriors can stomach the risk, Durant’s return could pay immediate dividends. With Steph Curry chasing a fifth ring, KD could be the key to maximizing the Warriors’ championship window. The only question: would Durant want another chapter in Golden State after the acrimonious end to his first stint?
Zach LaVine
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Zach LaVine
Chicago Bulls Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, 2025 First-Round Pick (GSW)
We have presented an idea of how the Warriors should go after Zach LaVine, a player earning $43M this season and $46M next season. LaVine would add athleticism and shot creation to the Warriors. The 29-year-old guard is averaging 24.0 PPG, 4.9 RPG, and 4.5 APG on 51.2% shooting and 44.4% from three.
His ability to generate offense both in transition and isolation would address Golden State’s 20th-ranked scoring offense. Pairing LaVine with Curry would give the Warriors a dynamic offensive backcourt, though his below-average defense could create issues.
The trade would cost Golden State several key rotation players. Wiggins’ defense on the wing, Looney’s rebounding, and Payton’s perimeter tenacity are integral to the Warriors’ identity. Losing them would force younger players like Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski into larger roles, which could hurt the team’s depth. Furthermore, LaVine’s contract is a long-term commitment, and his injury history makes him a risky addition for a team trying to win now.
If the Warriors pull the trigger, LaVine’s scoring punch could make them a more dangerous offensive team. However, the defensive trade-off might hurt their playoff chances, especially against elite teams in the Western Conference like the OKC Thunder and Denver Nuggets.
Myles Turner
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Myles Turner
Indiana Pacers Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, 2027 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Myles Turner, earning $19.9M this season before free agency hits, is the perfect solution to the Warriors’ glaring frontcourt issues. The 28-year-old center is having a strong season, averaging 15.4 PPG, 6.8 RPG, and 2.0 BPG while shooting 39.3% from beyond the arc. His ability to protect the rim and stretch the floor would address two of Golden State’s biggest weaknesses—rebounding and size. Pairing Turner with Draymond Green would give the Warriors a defensive core that could dominate inside.
The Pacers receive Jonathan Kuminga, who has struggled to find consistent minutes but still boasts untapped potential as a two-way forward. Adding Brandin Podziemski, a skilled young guard, and a 2027 first-round pick would allow Indiana to continue building around Tyrese Haliburton, Pascal Siakam, and Bennedict Mathurin. The question is whether the Warriors can afford to lose a young player like Kuminga with so much potential upside.
If Golden State pulls the trigger, Turner’s presence instantly elevates their defense and adds floor spacing to their offense. However, the trade does leave them thin at wing and guard depth, which could hurt them in a long playoff run. This is a move that solidifies the Warriors’ frontcourt, but it comes with risks given their reliance on youth for bench production.
Cam Johnson
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Cameron Johnson, Day’Ron Sharpe
Brooklyn Nets: Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, Gui Santos, 2027 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Cam Johnson, earning $22.5M this season and $20.5M next season, is the ideal 3-and-D wing for Golden State’s system. Averaging a career-high 19.4 PPG and 4.1 RPG on 41.9% shooting from three, Johnson’s floor-spacing ability would open up driving lanes for Curry and help replace Wiggins’ production. Meanwhile, Day’Ron Sharpe provides rebounding (6.2 RPG in 17.4 MPG) and interior defense at a much-needed position for the Warriors.
Brooklyn’s return of Kuminga, Payton, and Looney gives them versatile defenders and future assets to continue their rebuild. Kuminga’s upside as a two-way forward fits their timeline, while Looney’s championship experience would anchor their young roster. Still, the Warriors lose significant frontcourt depth, forcing them to rely heavily on youngsters and journeymen to fill those roles.
This trade makes sense for Golden State if they prioritize immediate shooting and defensive versatility. Cam Johnson fits seamlessly with Curry’s playmaking, and Sharpe adds value as a developmental big.
Nikola Vucevic
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Nikola Vucevic, Jevon Carter
Indiana Pacers Receive: Andrew Wiggins, Gui Santos, 2026 Second-Round Pick (ATL), 2028 Second-Round Pick (ATL)
It seems the Warriors want Nikola Vucevic, but have not been able to agree on a deal due to the Bulls’ high asking price. Vucevic, earning $20M this season and $21.5M next season, brings elite rebounding (10.3 RPG) and scoring (20.1 PPG) to a Warriors team in desperate need of size.
The veteran center is also shooting 40.6% from three this season, making him a versatile offensive weapon who fits into Golden State’s spacing-based system. Jevon Carter, a tenacious defender and capable shooter (42.1% 3PT), would also bolster the Warriors’ bench.
The cost for Vucevic and Carter is Andrew Wiggins, who is slightly underperforming relative to his $26.3M salary, along with Gui Santos and future picks. While Wiggins has struggled to regain his All-Star form this season, he remains one of the Warriors’ best defenders and a capable scorer in transition. Trading him would put additional pressure on Klay Thompson’s replacement and Moses Moody to produce on the wing.
If the Warriors prioritize rebounding and frontcourt scoring, Vucevic is an excellent fit. His ability to anchor the paint offensively and stretch defenses makes him a better fit than Kevon Looney in certain matchups. If the Bulls can lower their price a little bit, the Warriors might be able to pull off a deal.
Walker Kessler And Collin Sexton
Potential Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Collin Sexton, Walker Kessler
Utah Jazz Receive: Brandin Podziemski, Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, 2026 First-Round Pick, 2026 Second-Round Pick (ATL), 2028 Second-Round Pick (ATL)
Walker Kessler, on a $3.0M salary this season, is one of the best young rim protectors in the league, averaging 11.3 PPG, 11.4 RPG, and 2.4 BPG. Adding him would address the Warriors’ need for a shot-blocking center and give them a cornerstone big man for the future.
Collin Sexton, earning $18.4M this season and $19.2M next season, provides scoring off the bench, averaging 18.3 PPG and 4.1 APG. His aggressive style would inject energy into Golden State’s second unit. That is why we prepared an idea of how the Warriors could acquire both players to boost their depth chart while stunning their rivals as well.
Utah’s return of Brandin Podziemski, Gary Payton II, and Kevon Looney gives them a mix of youth, defense, and championship experience. Podziemski could develop into a versatile guard, while Looney provides stability in the frontcourt. Losing Kessler would hurt the Jazz long-term, but adding multiple assets and picks aligns with their rebuild.
For Golden State, this trade solves two immediate needs: rim protection and bench scoring. Kessler’s defensive presence would complement Draymond Green, while Sexton’s ability to create offense would take pressure off Curry.
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