The Golden State Warriors are reportedly in a state of reassessment and openness to major changes following a string of disappointing losses. Shams Charania provided insights into the Warriors' current mindset, revealing that everyone on the team, except for the iconic Stephen Curry, is potentially on the trade market.
"The mindset in Golden State right now is everyone but Steph Curry is on the table. That's their mindset. Now realistically there's an asterisk. Klay Thompson, would they want to keep him long-term and keep him in Golden State? I think that's been their hope."
"But Wiggins and everyone else on that roster except Steph Curry has to be in play for this team to blow out losses in a low in a row, they haven't even been close in in these games and so they're gonna be looking to make moves."
The Warriors, a team that enjoyed years of success with a core comprising Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, are now facing a challenging phase. The inability to secure a contract extension with Thompson and the recent extension for Green hint at uncertainties within the organization.
Charania suggests that the front office is particularly keen on retaining Thompson, but the lack of a contract extension raises questions about the long-term plan. The recent struggles of the team, including back-to-back blowout losses, have prompted the organization to consider major moves to rejuvenate and restructure the roster.
While there is an eagerness to make significant changes, the Warriors are reportedly cautious about acquiring long-term contracts in return. The preference seems to be for short-term and strategic moves that can address immediate concerns without burdening the team with extended financial commitments.
One notable aspect adding to the complexity is the expiring contract of head coach Steve Kerr. With no sign of a new deal on the horizon, Kerr's uncertain status adds another layer of complexity to the Warriors' decision-making process.
As the NBA trade deadline approaches, which is just under a month away, the Warriors are expected to be active in the market. The focus is on making moves that can propel the team back into contention while carefully managing the financial landscape and considering the future of key players and coaching staff.
There Is Little Help For The Warriors In The Trade Market
Despite Stephen Curry's acknowledgment of the need for significant changes in the Golden State Warriors roster, making impactful moves in the trade market seems increasingly challenging. The team's massive contracts are a major hurdle, with stars like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Chris Paul tied to substantial financial commitments.
Unfortunately, none of these players, aside from Curry, are currently performing at an elite level, making them less appealing to potential trade partners.
The younger talents on the Warriors, including Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody, are showing promise, but they are currently perceived as complementary players rather than future superstars. This limits their trade value and makes it challenging for the Warriors to leverage them in potential deals.
When scanning the trade market for available star power, the options are limited. While Zach LaVine is a notable name, the Warriors are reportedly averse to acquiring long-term contracts, eliminating him as a viable option. Pascal Siakam has been linked to the Warriors, but his expiring deal and the expected high price tag in the summer make him a risky and costly acquisition.
Compounding the issue is the scarcity of impactful role players in the trade market. With the February 8 deadline looming, the Warriors find themselves in a tight spot with limited attractive options available. Time is running out for the team to make significant moves that could address their current struggles and realign them as contenders in the highly competitive Western Conference.
The trade deadline will likely present a critical juncture for the Warriors as they navigate the challenging landscape of rebuilding and reshaping their roster.
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