The situation in the Golden State camp is far from smooth. While it’s widely believed that a change is needed, making a hasty decision could come with its risks. After all, taking a step back before pouncing can be just as important in the league as it is in the wild. So the Warriors might want to hold off on making any moves, as a potential blockbuster trade could be on the horizon, knocking on the Dubs’ front office door.
On The Hoop Collective podcast, reporter Ohm Youngmisuk joined his ESPN colleagues to discuss which player would be the perfect fit for the Warriors’ skillset. The name that came up might come as a shock, as he hasn’t been previously linked with the franchise. And that’s none other than Giannis Antetokounmpo.
But there’s a catch, “If things go bad in Milwaukee with Giannis this summer,” the national reporter highlighted. The Greek Freak had earlier stated that he wouldn’t remain with the Bucks if they didn’t win the championship. Considering how things are unfolding with the team, the chances of securing a title this season seem slim. So, a trade to the Warriors might just be on the cards.
USA Today via Reuters
“That is why you have to hold on to your assets to make a run at a guy like that if he becomes available,” Youngmisuk emphasized. Is it hard for you to picture the 2-time champion in a Warriors uniform? Well, Youngmisuk made that easier by adding, “I think Golden State is uniquely positioned for someone like Giannis because of Steph’s friendship with Giannis and Giannis having kind of, like, hinted in the past that, you know, the bay might be intriguing to him with the Warriors.”
Besides discussing Giannis’ potential fit with the Warriors, the ESPN reporter also clarified Stephen Curry‘s recent remarks about the franchise’s approach to trading.
ESPN reporter clarifies Stephen Curry’s stance on trade strategy of Warriors
Following the 104-101 defeat against the Raptors on Monday, Curry made a bold statement during a locker room interview. When asked about the Warriors’ potential moves at the peak of the trade window, the 4-time champion said, “Desperate trades or desperate moves that deplete the future.” He didn’t stop there.
Curry further added, “If you have an opportunity where a trade makes sense or in the summer a free agent makes sense, you want to continue to get better. Nobody wants to be stale or be in a situation where you’re passing up opportunities. But it doesn’t mean that you’re desperate, just flinging around assets all over the place because you want to do something.”
Could Giannis joining the Warriors be the ultimate game-changer, or just a risky gamble?
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With his comments, the Warriors’ leader made it clear that he wasn’t happy with the way the franchise is desperately trying to acquire assets while giving away too many pieces. He emphasized the importance of thoughtful moves rather than making hasty decisions that could jeopardize the team’s future. However, the statement was blown out of proportion but hopefully, it’ll be clear by Youngmisuk’s explanation.
One of the trading pieces that has reportedly been offered on the table is Jonathan Kuminga, who hasn’t been too weak given his averages of 16.8 points and 5.0 rebounds. He might be on the injury list for now but he did show improvement in his performance. “You might wanna hang on to that and see where it goes,” the reporter suggested.
“I think what they’re gonna do is they’re gonna wait till the trade deadline, see if a guy like Nikola Vucevic and the price goes down where you might be able to get him for just expiring contracts,” Youngmisuk continued, “Not have to give up a lot of picks or your 3 first-round picks you can trade. Certainly hold on to your young assets. I think that’s what he (Curry) means.”
Stephen Curry certainly wants success with the Warriors, but he’s not willing to risk the future for immediate gains. While he may not be around for a long time, as a loyalist to the franchise, all he cares about is what’s best for the team even if that means patiently waiting a little longer.
