Warriors Open to Trading Young Core After Recent Struggles
The Golden State Warriors began the 2024-25 NBA season with confidence in their roster, particularly in their young core. However, after losing nine of their last 11 games, including a disappointing exit in the NBA Cup quarterfinals to the Houston Rockets, their outlook has shifted. According to Clutch Points insider Brett Siegel, the Warriors are now actively exploring trade opportunities to address their struggles.
At 14-12 and currently the 10th seed in the Western Conference, the Warriors are reportedly open to including young players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Brandin Podziemski in potential deals. This marks a change in their stance, as the organization previously emphasized developing these players as part of their future plans. With the trade deadline approaching, the Warriors are exploring options to pair a star player with Steph Curry, potentially signaling a pivot away from their developmental strategy.
One prominent trade target is Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler, with the Warriors seen as strong contenders to acquire him. However, Butler's contract and Golden State's salary cap constraints present challenges, likely requiring the team to offload multiple players to make the deal feasible. The Phoenix Suns have also expressed mutual interest in Butler, adding further complexity to the situation.
The inconsistency of Kuminga, Moody, and Podziemski has contributed to the Warriors' openness to trade discussions. Kuminga, averaging 15.3 points and 4.4 rebounds, has shown flashes of potential but remains inconsistent in his fourth year. Podziemski is enduring a sophomore slump with subpar shooting percentages, while Moody, sidelined by a knee injury, has averaged 7.4 points this season. These struggles have raised questions about their long-term fit with the team.
General Manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. stated back in June that trading the young core would require a move that significantly changes the franchise’s trajectory. As the trade deadline nears, Dunleavy reaffirmed the team's aggressive approach to improving the roster while balancing the value of assets being given up. The Warriors' focus remains on making moves that enhance their chances of winning another title during Curry's championship window.
Adding veteran guard Dennis Schroder was one such attempt, but his Warriors debut resulted in a blowout loss to Memphis, underscoring the team's current struggles. With the deadline looming, it’s clear the Warriors are considering more significant changes, likely involving their young players, to secure a stronger supporting cast for Curry.
Ultimately, Golden State's willingness to part with once-promising assets reflects their urgency to maximize Curry’s remaining prime years. The outcome of their trade activities leading up to February 6 will likely define the direction of the franchise for the remainder of the season and beyond.
