Warriors Trade Deadline: Three Transactions That Could Help Golden State Get Back on Track After a Disappointing Season

The Golden State Warriors are currently navigating a challenging season, one where expectations were high but results have been mixed. Despite having one of the most talented rosters in the NBA, the Warriors have struggled to find consistency, and their title aspirations appear uncertain. With the trade deadline approaching, the franchise finds itself at a crossroads: how can they get back on track and reclaim their place as a championship contender?

The Warriors have been built on a foundation of sharp shooting, high basketball IQ, and versatile defensive play, all led by their two-time MVP, Stephen Curry. However, as injuries to key players, inconsistent performances from younger talents, and aging veteran contributions continue to plague them, the front office must act decisively to put the team back in championship contention. This article will explore three trade scenarios that could help the Warriors capitalize on their core players’ window, strengthen their roster, and potentially right the ship for a deeper postseason run.

1. Trade for a Defensive Wing (The OG Anunoby Trade)

The Need:

Golden State’s defense, especially on the perimeter, has shown noticeable cracks this season. While they remain formidable on offense, the Warriors have struggled to contain opposing wings who can create their own shots or lock down defensively. The absence of a versatile, elite wing defender is becoming more glaring, and it’s hindering the team’s overall defensive structure. Players like Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins have had their moments, but they can’t consistently defend top-tier wings at the level needed for a deep playoff run.

The Solution: OG Anunoby

One name that stands out on the trade market as an immediate upgrade is OG Anunoby, the Toronto Raptors forward. Anunoby is a 6’7″ wing who excels as a perimeter defender, a skill the Warriors desperately need. He is known for his ability to guard multiple positions, from smaller guards to larger forwards, and his defensive versatility would allow Golden State to be more dynamic in their rotations, particularly against some of the league’s top scorers.

Offensively, Anunoby has also made strides. While not a primary ball handler, he can knock down the three-pointer, drive to the rim, and play within the Warriors’ ball movement-heavy system. His ability to space the floor and provide reliable scoring would help ease the offensive burden on Curry, Thompson, and Green, especially when the team faces tough defenses in playoff situations.

The Trade Package:

To acquire OG Anunoby, the Warriors would likely need to part with some combination of their younger players, such as Moses Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and potentially a future first-round pick. Toronto could be interested in rebuilding and getting more assets in return for Anunoby, especially if they are not in position to contend in the short term. The addition of a solid future asset (or multiple) would make the deal appealing for the Raptors.

A potential trade might look like this:

Warriors Receive:

• OG Anunoby

Raptors Receive:

• Jonathan Kuminga
• Moses Moody
• 2026 First-Round Pick

This trade not only addresses the Warriors’ defensive woes but also provides the team with another versatile scoring option who can be a key contributor on both ends of the floor in the postseason. Anunoby could also serve as a long-term asset, adding value for the Warriors’ future.

Why It Works:

• Defensive Upgrade: Anunoby would instantly elevate the Warriors’ perimeter defense, which is crucial in the Western Conference where teams like the Denver Nuggets, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Clippers have star wings and guards who can put pressure on defenses.
• Championship Window: This move would also align with the Warriors’ championship aspirations, especially with Curry, Green, and Thompson still in their primes or near their primes. Anunoby would be an essential piece in helping them match up against high-powered offenses like those of the Milwaukee Bucks or the Boston Celtics.
• Depth and Versatility: Anunoby’s ability to guard multiple positions gives the Warriors more flexibility in defensive rotations, especially in small-ball lineups where they thrive.

2. Acquire a Rebounder and Rim Protector (The Myles Turner Trade)

The Need:

Despite the presence of Draymond Green, the Warriors have struggled in the rebounding department this season. Additionally, their rim protection has been inconsistent, especially when facing teams with dominant big men in the post or on the glass. Green, while elite as a help defender and playmaker, is not always able to protect the rim effectively, and the Warriors’ lack of depth at the center position has been exposed.

With this in mind, the Warriors would benefit from acquiring a traditional center who can provide shot-blocking, rebounding, and interior scoring — all of which would help Golden State diversify its approach, particularly when facing teams with a more physical or dominant presence in the paint.

The Solution: Myles Turner

Myles Turner of the Indiana Pacers is one of the best shot-blockers and rebounders in the NBA, making him an ideal target for the Warriors. Turner is averaging over 2.5 blocks per game and is known for his ability to change shots in the paint. His 7-foot frame and elite defensive instincts would allow the Warriors to match up better against teams with dominant big men, such as the Denver Nuggets’ Nikola Jokić or the Phoenix Suns’ Deandre Ayton.

Offensively, Turner is an underrated asset, capable of stretching the floor with his three-point shooting. He would fit perfectly in the Warriors’ system, where shooting big men who can space the floor are vital. His pick-and-pop game, combined with his interior presence, would give the Warriors an extra dimension on offense, allowing them to stretch opposing defenses while still maintaining the threat of dominant rim protection.

The Trade Package:

The Warriors could potentially offer a combination of draft picks and younger assets to acquire Turner. A trade package centered around James Wiseman, who has not quite found a consistent role in Golden State’s rotation, would be an attractive offer for the Pacers. The Warriors could also include a first-round pick, given their need for an immediate impact player and Indiana’s desire to secure future assets for their own rebuild.

A potential trade might look like this:

Warriors Receive:

• Myles Turner

Pacers Receive:

• James Wiseman
• 2025 First-Round Pick
• 2027 Second-Round Pick

Why It Works:

• Interior Defense & Rebounding: Turner’s presence would address two major issues for the Warriors — rebounding and rim protection. His ability to contest shots around the basket would complement Green’s defensive versatility, allowing the Warriors to defend multiple styles of play.
• Spacing and Offense: Turner would help spread the floor, particularly in lineups where the Warriors are playing with small-ball big men. His ability to hit the three-pointer adds a new dimension to Golden State’s offense and allows them to maintain their perimeter-based game plan.
• Depth: Turner’s addition would give the Warriors more depth, especially at the center position, where they currently rely on Kevon Looney and Green to absorb minutes.

3. Adding a Veteran Playmaker (The Mike Conley Trade)

The Need:

While Curry is undoubtedly the leader of the team, the Warriors have occasionally struggled to manage their offense when he is off the floor or when opposing defenses focus on shutting him down. The team’s second-unit offense has been a point of concern, and there are times when the ball movement and decision-making suffer when Curry isn’t in control. A veteran point guard with experience in high-pressure situations could ease some of these issues and provide steadiness during stretches when the starting unit isn’t on the floor.

The Solution: Mike Conley

Mike Conley, the veteran point guard for the Utah Jazz, could be an ideal fit for the Warriors. Conley is a steady playmaker who has been known for his excellent decision-making, leadership, and ability to facilitate in a high-tempo offense. Conley would offer the Warriors an experienced backup point guard to complement Curry, capable of running the offense when the team needs to give Curry a rest.

Offensively, Conley is a solid shooter and has the ability to drive and dish, making him a great fit in Golden State’s offense, which relies heavily on ball movement. He can be relied upon to create shots for others and provide stability when the team needs it most.

The Trade Package:

The Warriors might be able to acquire Conley by offering some of their younger assets and a future second-round pick. Given that Utah is in rebuilding mode, they would likely be more focused on long-term assets than an immediate championship push, which could make a trade involving players like Moses Moody or a second-round pick feasible.

A potential trade might look like this:

Warriors Receive:

• Mike Conley

Jazz Receive:

• Moses Moody
• 2025 Second-Round Pick

Why It Works:

• Veteran Leadership: Conley brings valuable leadership and experience to the Warriors, especially when the team needs an organized and steady hand in critical moments.
• Offensive Efficiency: Conley’s decision-making would allow the Warriors to stay efficient offensively, especially in second-unit minutes when Curry is resting or facing tougher defensive matchups.
• Depth and Stability: Adding Conley would bolster the depth of the Warriors’ backcourt and ensure that they are not relying too heavily on Curry to carry the offensive load for the entire game.