Who Could the Warriors Trade For?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jonah Kubicek | Last updated Nov 18, 2024 11:44 AM ET

Despite a 10-2 record, despite sitting at the top of the Western COnference, and despite having 12 capable NBA players any given night, the Golden State Warriors are not seen as true title contenders. The Oklahoma City Thunder (who the Warriors beat), Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and even Houston Rockets are all taken more seriously around the league than the Warriors.

While the Warriors have proven time and time again that they are among the league's very best, the general consensus is that they are missing a bonafide star next to Stephen Curry. The Dubs have long been linked to some of the better players on the NBA trade market, and recent reports suggest that the Warriors will swing a trade.

Jimmy Butler is in the last year of his contract, and the Miami Heat are expected to shop him before the trade deadline. With the Heat currently sitting at 5-7, Butler might be cheaper than initially expected, and the Warriors could pounce.

"After being linked to him during the offseason, I can't help but wonder if the Warriors wouldn't give the Miami Heat another phone call about Jimmy Butler," wrote FanSided's Michael Saenz. "By January, there's a very good chance that the Heat could be dead in the water, especially if their start to their season is any indication. Could there be a deal to be made between the Heat and Warriors at the trade deadline that would give Steph Curry one more real shot to win another title? It would be quite an intriguing storyline if it did happen."

Butler, 35, is off to a slow start to the season, but he has long been one of the league's best competitors and playoff performers. Should he arrive in Golden State, the Warriors would have to give up some of their depth to match his salary, but they would be able to make a legitimate postseason run.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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