The Golden State Warriors, sitting at 19-19 and struggling in the middle of the Western Conference, seem poised for another Play-In Tournament appearance. The front office’s inactivity has been noticeable, especially after failing to secure a co-star for Stephen Curry during the offseason. With reports suggesting they are not pursuing Jimmy Butler, the Warriors must look elsewhere for reinforcements, particularly at the center position, which remains a weak spot.
Trayce Jackson-Davis and Kevon Looney have alternated starts, but neither provides the immediate impact the Warriors need. Jackson-Davis, still developing, would benefit from a more experienced center to complement Golden State’s offense. The team should prioritize acquiring a stretch-five to address their needs. Here are three potential options:
1.Nikola Vucevic(Chicago Bulls)
Proposed Trade:
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- Warriors Receive: Nikola Vucevic ($20.0M)
- Bulls Receive: Gary Payton II ($9.1M), Lindy Waters III ($2.1M), Kevon Looney ($8.0M), 2026 and 2028 Second-Round Picks (ATL)
Vucevic is having a strong season, averaging 20.3 points and 10.2 rebounds while shooting an impressive 43.3% from three. Adding Vucevic would bring post-scoring capabilities the Warriors have lacked in the Curry era and improve rebounding. This trade offers Chicago a mix of veteran players and future picks, which could be appealing given Vucevic’s expiring contract. For the Warriors, his verticality and scoring versatility could unlock a new dimension to their offense.
2. Myles Turner (Indiana Pacers)
- Proposed Trade:
- Warriors Receive: Myles Turner ($19.9M)
- Pacers Receive: Gary Payton II, Trayce Jackson-Davis ($1.8M), Kevon Looney, 2027 First-Round Pick (GSW)
Turner is a premier stretch-five, averaging 15.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, and shooting 39.0% from three. While acquiring Turner might be difficult, given the Pacers’ playoff aspirations, the inclusion of a first-round pick could make the deal enticing. Turner’s rim protection and ability to space the floor would fit perfectly alongside Draymond Green in Golden State’s system, providing a high-ceiling solution for their center woes.
3. John Collins (Utah Jazz)
- Proposed Trade:
- Warriors Receive: John Collins ($26.5M)
- Jazz Receive: Buddy Hield ($8.7M), Gary Payton II, Kevon Looney, 2026 and 2028 Second-Round Picks (ATL)
Collins, now thriving with the Jazz, is averaging 17.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and shooting 43.8% from three. His two-way versatility and ability to play as a small-ball center could fit well in Golden State’s fast-paced system. While Collins’ contract was once seen as burdensome, his production and the rising NBA salary cap make it more reasonable. The Jazz could leverage this trade to accumulate assets for a rebuilding phase.
Each of these options offers unique benefits, but all address the Warriors’ glaring need for a center capable of bolstering their offense and defense. Whether it’s Vucevic’s scoring, Turner’s rim protection, or Collins’ versatility, a move like this could reignite Golden State’s season and elevate their postseason prospects.
