Golden State Warriors: Addressing Their Struggles and Possible Trade Solutions
The Golden State Warriors, once dominant in the NBA, are currently in the midst of one of their most frustrating and disappointing stretches in recent memory. The team, which started the season with a strong 12-3 record and was atop the Western Conference standings, has experienced a significant fall from grace. The Warriors are now languishing in ninth place and are projected to face a familiar fate — the NBA Play-In Tournament, where their season ended last year. This downturn has led many to question what went wrong for the Warriors and what steps they need to take to turn things around.
Despite the struggles of several teams across the league, such as the Dallas Mavericks, New Orleans Pelicans, and Miami Heat, the Warriors’ problems are not rooted in internal conflict or catastrophic injuries. The team’s primary stars, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, remain in the fold, and while there have been some injuries throughout the season, nothing seems to explain why the Warriors have fallen from being a title contender to a middle-of-the-pack team. The answer may lie in a harsh reality: the core duo of Curry and Green, while still talented, may no longer be enough to lead the Warriors to another championship. To stay competitive, the Warriors need to improve their roster quickly, adding depth and solid players who can contribute on both ends of the floor.
The Warriors’ Current Dilemma
The Warriors have been unable to maintain the same level of excellence that made them the envy of the NBA for years. With their high-scoring backcourt of Curry and Klay Thompson, alongside Draymond Green’s elite defense and leadership, Golden State was once considered nearly invincible. However, this version of the team has struggled with consistency, particularly on the defensive end and in terms of depth. Curry, despite his brilliance, cannot carry the team on his own anymore, and Green’s aging legs and fluctuating performance mean the team can no longer rely solely on their two longtime stars.
With their championship window starting to close, Golden State must look to make moves to stay relevant in the Western Conference. Several trade rumors have circulated, with names like Jimmy Butler, Brandon Ingram, LeBron James, and Giannis Antetokounmpo linked to the Warriors. While acquiring a superstar like Butler or Giannis may be enticing, it is a difficult proposition given their current salary cap and assets. Instead, the Warriors might find more success in shoring up their supporting cast, adding solid role players who can complement Curry and Green’s skillsets.
The Trade Proposal: Anfernee Simons and Robert Williams III
A more practical trade option for Golden State could come in the form of a deal with the Portland Trail Blazers. As Portland continues its rebuilding process and looks to tank for future draft picks, they are likely open to moving some of their more experienced players. The Warriors could offer Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Lindy Waters III, and a 2026 first-round pick in exchange for two key players: Anfernee Simons and Robert Williams III.
Anfernee Simons: The Scoring Guard the Warriors Need
Anfernee Simons, a talented young guard for the Blazers, could be the answer to Golden State’s struggles on the offensive end. He’s currently averaging 18 points per game and shooting 33.9% from beyond the arc. While his shooting percentage this season is down from his career average of 38.1%, Simons remains an efficient offensive weapon with the ability to stretch the floor and provide a scoring spark off the bench or even as a starter. His ability to play both guard spots is another valuable asset for the Warriors, allowing them flexibility in the backcourt alongside Curry, Dennis Schröder, and Brandin Podziemski.
Simons has demonstrated the ability to handle the ball and facilitate offense, averaging five assists per game this season. His scoring versatility would provide a much-needed boost to the Warriors’ offense, especially when Curry is on the bench or when opposing defenses hone in on him. Additionally, Simons is a player with significant upside at just 24 years old, and playing in the Warriors’ high-powered offensive system could unlock even more of his potential.
Robert Williams III: The Defensive Anchor Golden State Needs
On the defensive end, Robert Williams III could provide the Warriors with the type of rim protection and rebounding that they’ve lacked in recent years. Standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-6 wingspan, Williams is one of the best shot-blockers in the league. He would be a perfect complement to Green, giving the Warriors a more imposing presence in the paint while allowing Green to focus on his strengths as a versatile defender and playmaker.
Williams’ defensive metrics speak for themselves: he is one of the league’s elite rim protectors, averaging 2.2 blocks per game and earning recognition for his ability to defend in space. His rebounding prowess, particularly on the defensive glass, would also help the Warriors avoid second-chance opportunities for their opponents, which has been a problem for Golden State at times this season.
Offensively, Williams is not as polished as other centers, but he’s effective in the paint, especially as a lob finisher and offensive rebounder. He doesn’t need the ball in his hands to make an impact, and his athleticism and size would make him a valuable asset on both ends of the court. His presence would take some of the pressure off Green, allowing the Warriors to rotate their defensive schemes more effectively.
Why This Trade Makes Sense for Both Teams
For the Warriors, this trade provides a clear path to bolster both their offense and defense without breaking the bank or mortgaging their future. By acquiring Simons, they would add a talented young guard who can grow alongside their core and contribute immediately. Meanwhile, Williams gives them the defensive anchor they’ve been missing, allowing them to improve their rebounding and rim protection — two areas where they have struggled this season.
For the Blazers, this trade offers the opportunity to continue their rebuild. Wiggins, Payton, and Waters are all solid contributors who could help a team that is looking to build for the future. Wiggins, in particular, could be a valuable veteran presence for Portland’s young roster, while Payton and Waters provide depth and defensive ability. The addition of a 2026 first-round pick also gives the Blazers another asset to add to their growing stockpile of draft picks, which is essential as they look to retool for the future.
Conclusion: A Logical Step Forward
The Golden State Warriors are at a crossroads in their franchise’s trajectory. With Curry and Green no longer enough to guarantee a title, the team must find ways to improve its supporting cast. Trading for Anfernee Simons and Robert Williams III could provide the Warriors with the scoring and defensive depth they need to remain competitive in the Western Conference. With both players under contract through next season, this trade would not only help Golden State in the short term but also provide them with a more balanced roster moving forward. If the Warriors make this move, they could position themselves for a deep playoff run and reassert themselves as contenders in the NBA.
