The Warriors can look for a Kristaps Porzingis trade. Finding one that actually helps them is the harder part.
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Golden State faces several obstacles, from Porzingis’ uncertain playing future to salary restrictions and a reluctance to surrender other valuable pieces.
Porzingis is considering his future in basketball amid recurring symptoms of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome, commonly known as POTS, ESPN reported. The Warriors were optimistic about his health when they signed him to a two-year, $40 million extension over the summer, per Siegel. Only $3 million of next season’s $20 million salary is guaranteed.
That limited guarantee could appeal to a team looking to reduce future payroll. Getting a productive player back, however, could require the Warriors to include draft compensation.
As Hoops Wire previously covered, Golden State contacted the Bucks, who aren’t believed to be interested in Porzingis. Myles Turner would offer a positional fit, but he hasn’t been confirmed as a Warriors target. His roughly $26.6 million salary also exceeds what Golden State can absorb for Porzingis alone.
Adding Moses Moody would help with the salary math. But Siegel reports that the Warriors prefer to keep the injured wing and were willing to move him this offseason only for a significant upgrade. His sources also downplayed a Jimmy Butler trade.
One team to monitor is the Grizzlies. According to Siegel, Memphis wants to use its sizable trade exception to absorb an unwanted contract and collect draft assets. That makes the Grizzlies a possible partner, though no Porzingis negotiations were reported.
The Warriors need help on the floor. Paying another team to take a contract would solve only part of their problem.
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