Golden State’s championship aspirations took a significant hit Wednesday with news of Jimmy Butler’s season-ending ACL tear, forcing the Warriors to recalibrate their plans ahead of the February 5 trade deadline.
Warriors’ Trade Options Narrow After Butler Injury
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The Warriors face a critical decision as they weigh contending now versus building for the future following a devastating injury.
- The Warriors are now more likely to prioritize future assets over immediate upgrades.
- Giannis Antetokounmpo remains their top target, with Milwaukee potentially open to discussions.
- Golden State could offer a package of up to four first-round picks in a deal for the Bucks superstar.
General manager Mike Dunleavy acknowledged the shift in strategy, stating, “Maybe the parameters have changed. Perhaps the objectives have changed.” The injury to Butler, a key player, has prompted a reevaluation of the team’s approach to the trade market.
What Can Golden State Offer for Giannis?
League sources indicate the Warriors have already engaged with the Bucks, expressing strong interest in Antetokounmpo despite his recent calf injury. While his recovery timeline remains uncertain, Golden State is prepared to submit a substantial offer. However, whether Antetokounmpo would approve a trade to the Warriors is a crucial question, echoing past situations like Kevin Durant’s reluctance to return last February.
The Bucks hold the leverage, able to either act now or wait for a broader market to develop in the summer. League executives believe a swift decision by Milwaukee would favor the Warriors, who possess arguably the most attractive package of draft picks.
Golden State can offer up to four first-round picks: 2026, 2028, and 2032 unprotected, along with the 2030 pick (protected if it falls within the top 20, otherwise conveyed to Washington as part of the Jordan Poole-for-Chris Paul trade). The limited number of picks the Bucks have already traded restricts their potential to acquire additional pick swaps.
Dunleavy indicated a willingness to part with future draft assets, stating, “It would take a good offer [to trade the post-Curry era selections]. As far as position, style of play, archetype, all that. I’d leave it pretty open. But if there is a great player available, we have everything we need to use him.”
Despite informing Butler of their intention to support him through his recovery, the Warriors are exploring all options. While not actively shopping his contract, Butler’s salary could be a valuable asset in a potential deal for Antetokounmpo, or a package involving Draymond Green and other rotation players.
Other teams, such as the New York Knicks (with Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby) and the Miami Heat (with Tyler Herro and Kel’el Ware), possess intriguing assets. However, Milwaukee has reportedly shown interest in Jonathan Kuminga since the summer, viewing him as a potential gamble with a controllable contract.
Third-year guard Brandin Podziemski, a Milwaukee native, could also be a key component of a trade package, with his $5.7 million team option for next season adding value. To balance salaries, the Warriors might also consider absorbing a veteran from Milwaukee, such as Bobby Portis (three years, $43.5 million remaining) or Kyle Kuzma (two years, $42.7 million remaining).
What’s the Backup Plan?
Team sources suggest that if the Warriors fail to acquire Antetokounmpo, they won’t pursue any other significant investments in the current market. They have shown interest in Trey Murphy III of the New Orleans Pelicans, but the Pelicans’ front office has been unwilling to part with their young talent.
The Warriors have also been linked to players like Michael Porter Jr. of the Brooklyn Nets and Andrew Wiggins from Miami, but team sources deny these rumors. They have not contacted Miami regarding a potential return for Wiggins.
What Does This Mean for Kuminga?
Despite Kuminga’s desire for a fresh start, Dunleavy has indicated he won’t trade him unless he receives a compelling offer. Butler’s injury, while diminishing title hopes, has increased Kuminga’s playing time to 20-25 minutes per game.
“Now that Jimmy’s out, there’s no doubt he’s going to play,” Kerr said. “He’s going to play an important role. So I hope he recovers soon [from a small bone contusion] because it is a great opportunity for him and we need him. “We need what he brings.”
The Warriors are still evaluating trade offers for Kuminga, but his value has likely increased following Butler’s injury. His $24.3 million team option and increased playing time could allow both sides to achieve their desired outcomes.
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Shams confirms several “aggressive” offers for Giannis
Shams Charania details the next steps for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks as the trade deadline approaches.
What Does This Mean for the Curry-Kerr Era?
The Warriors currently hold a record of 27-22, placing them eighth in the Western Conference and in the play-in tournament picture.
“Our goals haven’t changed. We’re still trying to win,” Kerr said. “But obviously our potential is not that high. I mean, Jimmy is one of the best players in the league and we were pretty convinced that if they gave us a chance in the playoffs, we could go on a good run like last year.
“With Jimmy gone, obviously it’s going to be a lot harder to do it. But we’re still going to try. We’re going to keep doing everything we can to put ourselves in a good position, make the playoffs, and you never know what can happen.”
Curry will turn 38 in March. Time is of the essence.
Kerr has consistently argued against overspending assets on marginal upgrades, but there’s a clear desire for reinforcement if a reasonable opportunity arises. “It’s up to Mike and Joe [Lacob],” Kerr said. “I’m in the last year of my contract, so nothing is guaranteed for the future. I have always believed that they should do what is best for the franchise. But we have Steph Curry and Steph is still playing at a high level, and if there’s anything we can do to give Steph more help, we should do it. “What that means is always in the details, what options are available and what we would have to give up.”
Kerr has not sought a contract extension, believing an open future benefits both parties. He remains undecided about returning for a 13th season. “Let’s wait until the end of the year and see if we’re all on board,” Kerr said. “If we are, we will move forward. If not, no. [Dependerá de] How the season ends, what the future looks like, all that influences. And they, that is, Joe and the board, have a lot to think about. “It’s a really interesting time for the organization.”
