The Warriors’ Next Big Move: What Could Be Coming?

The Golden State Warriors, a team that has dominated the NBA landscape for nearly a decade, is once again at a critical juncture. Despite their success, including four championships in the last decade, the team is facing a new set of challenges that could lead to a major trade. According to NBA reporter Marc Stein, the Warriors believe they are well-positioned to make a significant upgrade within the next year. But with recent failures to land stars like LeBron James, Paul George, and Lauri Markkanen, fans are left wondering: Who’s next on the Warriors’ radar?

Why the Warriors Need an Upgrade

At 36 years old, Steph Curry is still performing at an elite level. His gold-medal-winning performance during the Olympics showcased his brilliance, hitting four clutch three-pointers in the final minutes of the game. However, the lack of a consistent second option on the team is becoming a glaring issue. While Andrew Wiggins has moments of brilliance, his inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on him as a secondary star.

The Warriors have a talented young core, including players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, but they lack an established star to complement Curry. The team’s recent offseason moves, which included signing Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, and De’Anthony Melton, were designed to add depth and versatility. While these players are valuable, they aren’t the star power needed to take the Warriors back to championship contention.

Who Could the Warriors Target?

The Warriors have been linked to several big names, but some of the most likely targets include Zach LaVine, Brandon Ingram, Jeremy Grant, and even Jared Allen. LaVine, for instance, has been rumored to be available at a discounted price due to his “toxic contract.” Despite this, LaVine remains an elite offensive player who could thrive as a third option behind Curry.

Another intriguing option is Jared Allen of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Allen has been one of the league’s top defensive centers, and the Cavs could consider trading him if they struggle early in the season. A defensive anchor like Allen would provide the Warriors with much-needed rim protection and rebounding.

Alternatively, the Warriors could opt for a collection of solid role players like De’Andre Hunter, Bruce Brown, or Jordan Clarkson. This approach would allow the team to stay under the luxury tax threshold while still improving their roster.

The Home Run: Could the Warriors Land Devin Booker or Kevin Durant?

One of the most exciting potential trades being speculated is the possibility of acquiring Devin Booker or Kevin Durant. Following Team USA’s disappointing FIBA World Cup performance, Booker hinted at his willingness to play a more unselfish role, tweeting that he’d be willing to take on the extra pass and strong defense responsibilities. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has publicly praised Booker for his selflessness and defensive intensity, calling him the “unsung MVP” of the Olympics.

While Booker is currently with the Phoenix Suns, the team’s future is uncertain. If the Suns experience another disappointing playoff run, they may be forced to consider rebuilding. This could open the door for a major trade involving the Warriors, especially if Booker or Durant requests a trade to the Bay Area.

However, such a trade would require complex negotiations involving multiple teams. The Houston Rockets, for example, currently hold several of Phoenix’s future draft picks, which could be used as leverage in any deal involving Booker or Durant. The Warriors would need an assist from Booker himself, likely in the form of a trade demand, to make such a blockbuster move happen.

What If the Trade Doesn’t Happen? Could Steph Curry Leave the Warriors?

With all the speculation surrounding potential trades, one question looms large: What if the Warriors fail to make a significant move? Would Steph Curry ever consider leaving the only franchise he’s ever known?

Curry has always expressed his desire to retire as a Warrior. In a recent interview with ESPN, he reiterated his commitment to the team, saying, “I’ve always said I want to be a Warrior for life.” However, he also added a caveat: “I want to win. If it’s a situation where you’re a bottom feeder and it’s just because you want to stay there, I’d have a hard time with that.”

This statement, while not an outright demand for change, puts subtle pressure on the Warriors’ front office to remain competitive. Curry doesn’t want to end his career like Dirk Nowitzki or Kobe Bryant, legendary players who remained loyal to their teams but missed out on championship opportunities in their final years.

The Future of the Warriors’ Core

The departure of Klay Thompson to the Dallas Mavericks has opened the door for more significant changes. Thompson’s move was a reminder that the core that led the Warriors to multiple championships is not untouchable. While Draymond Green and Curry are still with the team, the idea of one of them leaving is no longer unthinkable.

As the Warriors prepare for the 2024-2025 season, the pressure to make a big move is palpable. The team’s front office, led by Bob Myers, has built a reputation for making bold, successful decisions in the past. Whether it’s drafting Curry, Green, and Thompson or trading for Andrew Wiggins, the Warriors have shown they are willing to take risks.

Conclusion: Will the Warriors Make One Last Run?

As it stands, the Warriors are in a strong position to make a trade that could bring them back to the top of the NBA. Whether it’s acquiring a player like LaVine or Allen, or making a blockbuster deal for Booker or Durant, the team has the assets and flexibility to pull off a major move.

However, time is running out. Curry’s window of elite play is closing, and the Warriors need to act fast if they want to capitalize on the final years of his career. Whether they make a trade or not, one thing is clear: The Warriors’ future is anything but certain, and the next few months could determine whether they remain contenders or start a rebuild.