It’s starting to feel inevitable. The Warriors are eyeing a splash move. Big splash, in fact.
With the Feb. 6 trade deadline looming, GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. and the Golden State brass are reportedly working the phones, hunting for a star to pair with Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. Yes, that’s the Steph Curry and the Draymond Green, in case you needed a reminder.
ESPN’s Shams Charania dropped the latest nugget, reporting that the Warriors are after a “playmaker” or “scorer” to bolster their core. Remember when they kicked the tires on Lauri Markkanen this summer? Or when they made a run at Paul George? That tells you everything you need to know about their ambition level.
Sure, they’ve done fine with offseason additions like Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, De’Anthony Melton, and even Lindy Waters. Nice depth pieces, for sure. And Jonathan Kuminga just put up a career-high 33 points in a scrappy win over Houston. But the big question remains: Is Kuminga ready to be the guy behind Curry and Green? Or is the answer somewhere outside the organization?
Kuminga’s upside is undeniable, but consistency? That’s the sticking point. Shams laid it out: “As his role elevates, so does his output.” Sounds great. But can Kuminga handle that role every night when it’s playoff time? That’s the debate Warriors officials are wrestling with as they assess their championship window.
Here’s the thing: the Warriors don’t do half-measures. They’re all-in on contending with Curry and Green still leading the charge. So, if they think a blockbuster trade is what it takes to bring another banner to the Bay, they’ll make it happen.
The clock is ticking, and the league is watching. Dunleavy has time — for now. But don’t be shocked if Golden State shakes up the NBA landscape in the weeks ahead. As Shams put it, “The Warriors’ future will be shaped over the next few weeks and months.”
And really, are we betting against them figuring it out? Didn’t think so.
- More Warriors | All coverage from Hoops Wire
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!