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Golden State Warriors have perfect ‘bargaining chip’ for Giannis Antetokounmpo or LeBron James trade

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Aikansh Chaudhary | Last updated Jul 4, 2025 11:00 AM ET

One Golden State Warriors star could be key to getting a massive name like Giannis Antetokounmpo to the Bay Area.

The Milwaukee Bucks waiving Damian Lillard was a shocking decision. Even Giannis Antetokounmpo was shocked by the news as the Bucks made room for Myles Turner.

While the Lillard saga continues, there is still a chance that Giannis may ask out following Dame’s departure from Milwaukee.

Keeping that in mind, the Golden State Warriors may have the perfect player they can use to trade for the Greek Freak.

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Jonathan Kuminga is the ‘bargaining chip’ that could help in trading for Giannis Antetokounmpo

Jonathan Kuminga’s future with the Warriors was undoubtedly one of the biggest storylines ahead of the offseason.

All signs point to Kuminga leaving the Dubs sooner rather than later. Fortunately, Kuminga’s positive vibe makes him easy to ship off for the Dubs.

With that said, ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel recently reported that the 22-year-old is the perfect bargaining chip for the Warriors in case Antetokounmpo becomes available for trade.

“If, by some chance, Giannis requests out, the Warriors will put themselves very much in those trade conversations,” Siegel wrote.

Siegel also clarified that fans shouldn’t expect clarity on Giannis’ situation with the Bucks right now.

“There isn’t expected to be a clear answer on Antetokounmpo’s future with the Bucks until later in the summer, well after the free agency period and trade market have died down.

“In order to pursue Giannis, the Warriors would need a young talent like Kuminga on a decent contract to utilize as a bargaining chip,” he added.

Not only Giannis Antetokounmpo, Golden State Warriors can trade for LeBron James as well

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Kuminga is coming on the heels of averaging 15.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game for the Warriors last season.

However, Kuminga knows his value and could receive an annual salary of more than $25 million. The Warriors could use it to their advantage by engaging in a sign-and-trade for someone of LeBron James‘ caliber, too.

“The same line of thinking relates to LeBron James and his uncertain future. Warriors owner Joe Lacob has long dreamed of bringing James to San Francisco, and they seriously pursued him before the 2024 NBA trade deadline, sources said,” Siegel stated.

Since James opted into his $52.6 million player option, the King has become a mainstay in NBA trade rumors.

If the Dubs want to trade for the 40-year-old, Kuminga will undoubtedly be the key piece in making the move happen.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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