Golden State Warriors Pursue Major Trade Opportunities as Mavericks Consider Overhaul
At 13-14, the Golden State Warriors find themselves at a crossroads. Seeking to bolster their roster, they are likely to engage in trade discussions with the Dallas Mavericks, who sit at a disappointing 10-17. Following the dismissal of Nico Harrison in early November, the Mavericks are in a state of flux, currently lacking a permanent general manager. The new leadership will need to make significant changes to surround emerging talent Cooper Flagg with a stronger supporting cast.
Mavericks Explore Trade Markets
Recently, reports have surfaced that the Mavericks are actively exploring potential trades for high-profile players, including Anthony Davis, Klay Thompson, Daniel Gafford, and D’Angelo Russell. This shift in focus presents a unique opportunity for the Warriors to engage in discussions that might reshape both franchises. Here are three trade proposals designed to help the Warriors contend while infusing the Mavericks with youth and draft assets.
Warriors Consider Bold Move for Anthony Davis
One major trade concept involves sending Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and a 2027 first-round pick to the Mavericks in exchange for Anthony Davis. This deal closely mirrors a previous four-team trade scenario that positioned the Warriors to acquire Davis. The critical difference lies in the Mavericks’ request for a 2027 first-round pick instead of a 2026 pick. This adjustment reflects their current lack of future draft assets and a gamble on a potential decline in the Warriors’ performance due to injuries or age.
Trading Green for Davis carries its own risks. While Green is an elite defender, Davis presents a more substantial offensive threat. His ability to finish plays could significantly enhance the Warriors’ offensive dynamics. From the Mavericks’ perspective, moving Davis and his hefty three-year, $175.4 million contract could be a savvy move, especially if they are uncertain about finding other suitors. Moreover, acquiring Kuminga offers Dallas a three-month trial period to evaluate his fit alongside Flagg before deciding on his contract option.
Klay Thompson Return and Center Upgrade
Another intriguing trade proposal would see the Warriors swap Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and a 2032 second-round pick for Klay Thompson and Daniel Gafford. While the return of Thompson would generate headlines, the centerpiece of the deal would be Gafford. Standing at 6’10”, he would immediately establish himself as the Warriors’ leading rebounder and shot-blocker, averaging 9.9 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per 36 minutes.
Gafford’s scoring ability in the paint would also be a boon for Golden State. He averages 6.3 points in the paint per game, which exceeds the combined output of Draymond Green, Quentin Post, and Al Horford. With a contract extending through the 2028-29 season at a favorable rate, Gafford could offer more long-term value than Kuminga.
Conversely, Thompson’s trade value has diminished. His current salary of $16.7 million this season, followed by $17.4 million next season, isn’t justified by his performance, with averages of just 11.1 points and 36.1 percent shooting from beyond the arc. However, he would still be an upgrade over Hield, who is struggling with a 31.5 percent shooting clip from three-point range. The Mavericks could look to buy out Hield for $3 million in the offseason, aligning with their goal of achieving greater salary cap flexibility.
Alternative Pathways for Gafford
As the Warriors strategize around their roster, they may also consider a different route to acquire Gafford. A potential package could involve Moses Moody, Al Horford, and a 2032 second-round pick. This option may appeal to the Mavericks if they seek to secure young talent that complements their existing roster. Moody, a 23-year-old three-and-D wing on a team-friendly contract, could fill a void in Dallas, which currently lacks young wing players aside from Flagg.
In this scenario, Gafford would likely become a starter, alleviating some of the pressure on Green, who is currently playing more center minutes than his age would ideally permit.
As both teams navigate their respective challenges, the upcoming trade discussions could significantly alter the landscape of the Western Conference, potentially reshaping the fortunes of both the Warriors and Mavericks as they aim for a return to prominence.
