While the Golden State Warriors don’t intend to move the remaining members of their dynasty era, they will need to do something to get back in the playoff race.
Most believe they cannot even make the play-in tournament as currently constructed. So without a doubt, they will look to make some moves between now and the Feb. 8 trade deadline (which just happens to be next Thursday).
Per Brian Windhorst of ESPN, veteran point guard Chris Paul and small forward Andrew Wiggins are considered the most likely candidates to be traded.
Paul, 38, is currently sidelined with an injury, and while few teams would be interested in him as a major part of things, he has proven to be a capable backup floor general. He was acquired by the Warriors before the season and is coming off the bench for the first time in his career.
There are major questions, however, if he can stay on the court, especially at this age.
He is averaging 8.9 points, 7.1 assists and 3.8 rebounds, shooting 42 percent from the field and 36 percent on 3-pointers. He’s making $30.8 million.
Meanwhile, since the Warriors reportedly don’t want to trade forward Draymond Green or shooting guard Klay Thompson, Wiggins is the most likely moveable candidate. At least, he is when you’re talking about getting something in return.
Wiggins, 28, is averaging 12.5 points, 4.2 rebounds and 1.6 assists, shooting 44 percent from the field and just 31 percent on threes. He’s making $24.3 million this season.
There has been some talk the Warriors have an interest in available Chicago Bulls guard Zach LaVine, also out with an injury.
Golden State (20-24) sits in 12th place in the Western Conference entering Thursday’s games.
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