The Golden State Warriors face a critical decision point. Throughout the NBA offseason, their moves have taken varied directions. Initially, they parted ways with Chris Paul and franchise icon Klay Thompson with little return.
However, their focus quickly shifted to constructing a contender around Stephen Curry by adding several role players, resulting in the acquisitions of Buddy Hield, De’Anthony Melton, and Kyle Anderson.
Yet, the team’s direction remains uncertain. If their goal is to build a contender now, parting with assets like Brandin Podziemski might be justifiable. However, in potential deals involving Lauri Markkanen and Paul George, Podziemski has been the sticking point, with the Warriors unwilling to include him. While the team might still be above average, their championship aspirations seem far-reaching.
Management, however, views the situation differently. According to the latest reporting by Marc Stein, Golden State believes they are well-positioned for a significant trade. “Golden State is plotting its next moves in the wake of unsuccessful trade pursuits of Paul George and Lauri Markkanen in the offseason. Team officials believe they remain well-positioned for a trade upgrade at some point in the next year or so after responding to the free agent departure of Curry’s longtime backcourt mate Klay Thompson by acquiring Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De’Anthony Melton on short-terms deals and retaining all of their draft picks. The distinct sense at Chase Center is that the Clippers and the Jazz, despite no shortage of conversations with both teams, did not really want to do business with the Warriors.”
If the Warriors’ outlook proves accurate, the question remains: who should they target in a potential trade? Two names stand out as logical choices.
Dorian Finney-Smith
If the Warriors intend to continue building around Curry with complementary role players, Dorian Finney-Smith is an obvious choice. Golden State’s most pressing issue, beyond finding scoring options outside of Curry, is perimeter defense. Finney-Smith offers a solid solution as a point-of-attack defender. While his scoring is limited, his elite shooting could fill the void left by Klay Thompson.
However, for this move to work, Golden State would need significant development from its young core. Either Brandin Podziemski or Jonathan Kuminga must make a substantial leap to provide the necessary scoring threat.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Dorian Finney-Smith, Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors Updates
Without this internal growth, the team may lack the offensive firepower needed to contend. The addition of Finney-Smith could be effective, but it hinges on the progress of their younger players.
Brandon Ingram
Brandon Ingram presents a more high-profile and compelling option for the Warriors. While his defense may not be exceptional, his offensive capabilities are undeniable. Ingram has averaged over 20 points per game for five consecutive seasons, maintaining solid efficiency from the field and beyond the arc. Paired with Curry, he would provide a formidable scoring threat and offer the Warriors a new offensive dynamic.
Throughout Curry’s career, the presence of a reliable mid-range scorer has often led to success. This was evident during the Warriors’ dynasty alongside Kevin Durant, and even more recently with a peak Andrew Wiggins, who contributed to the team’s 2022 NBA championship.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Brandon Ingram, New Orleans Pelicans, Golden State Warriors Updates
While Ingram may not offer the same defensive prowess as Durant or Wiggins, his offensive skills fall within a similar range. This upgrade, combined with a deep rotation, could propel Golden State back to championship contention.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
Local San Francisco, CA
Most Popular
Comments / 0