The Golden State Warriors need to make major moves after losing Klay Thompson and Chris Paul. Here are the best targets they should consider to stay competitive.
The Golden State Warriors are at a crucial juncture after losing two of their key players, Klay Thompson and Chris Paul. Klay Thompson has signed a three-year, $50 million deal with the Dallas Mavericks, marking the end of his illustrious career with Golden State. His departure leaves a significant gap in the Warriors’ roster, both in terms of scoring and veteran leadership. Chris Paul, who was acquired by the Warriors in a trade involving Jordan Poole, Ryan Rollins, and future draft picks, also won’t be part of the team moving forward, as he was waived and later signed by the Spurs.
To address these significant losses, the Warriors have been active in exploring various options. They are in serious talks with the Philadelphia 76ers for a sign-and-trade involving Buddy Hield, aiming to bring in his scoring prowess and three-point shooting to fill the gap left by Klay. In addition to these negotiations, the Warriors have already made moves by acquiring De’Anthony Melton, a versatile guard known for his defensive capabilities, and Kyle Anderson, a forward with playmaking skills and defensive versatility.
While these additions are valuable, they aren’t enough to propel the Warriors back to the top of the highly competitive Western Conference. To truly compete for a playoff spot and make a deep postseason run, the Warriors need another high-caliber player who can provide consistent scoring, leadership, and experience. The next steps the Warriors take will be crucial in determining their ability to remain contenders in the upcoming season.
1. Lauri Markkanen
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Warriors receive: Lauri Markkanen
Jazz receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2026 first-round pick, 2027 swap rights, 2028 first-round pick
Lauri Markkanen had a standout season with the Utah Jazz, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and efficient scorer. During the 2023-24 NBA season, Markkanen averaged 23.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game. He demonstrated his scoring prowess by shooting 48.0% from the field, 39.9% from beyond the arc, and 89.9% from the free-throw line. His ability to score efficiently from all three levels of the court makes him an attractive target for the Golden State Warriors.
The Utah Jazz are reportedly open to trading Markkanen if the right offer materializes, especially as they aim to retool their roster around a younger core. The Warriors have shown interest in acquiring a player like Markkanen to address the scoring void left by Klay Thompson’s departure and to add more depth and versatility to their frontcourt.
Markkanen would be an excellent fit for the Warriors, providing a much-needed boost in scoring and floor spacing. His proficiency in three-point shooting would complement Stephen Curry’s game, while his size and length would enhance the Warriors’ defensive capabilities. With his ability to play both forward positions, Markkanen would give the Warriors flexibility in their lineups, allowing them to adapt to different matchups and strategies.
The proposed trade package includes Andrew Wiggins, who had a season averaging 17.1 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game. Despite his inconsistencies, Wiggins remains a valuable asset who can contribute immediately to the Jazz. Alongside Wiggins, the inclusion of future draft assets such as a 2026 first-round pick, 2027 swap rights, and a 2028 first-round pick offers the Jazz a blend of current talent and future potential.
Markkanen’s contract status is another factor in favor of this trade. He is under contract for two more seasons, which provides the Warriors with some stability in their roster planning. Integrating Markkanen into the Warriors’ system would be crucial, as his ability to play off the ball and thrive in a motion offense fits well with Golden State’s style of play.
2. Brandon Ingram
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Warriors receive: Brandon Ingram
Pelicans receive: Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, 2026 first-round pick
Brandon Ingram has been a standout player for the New Orleans Pelicans, known for his scoring versatility and playmaking abilities. During the 2023-24 NBA season, Ingram averaged 20.8 points, 5.7 assists, and 5.1 rebounds per game. He demonstrated his efficiency by shooting 49.2% from the field, 35.5% from three-point range, and 80.1% from the free-throw line. These statistics underscore his ability to contribute effectively on the offensive end, making him an attractive trade target for teams looking to bolster their scoring options.
Ingram is currently under contract with the Pelicans, having signed a five-year, $158 million deal in November 2020. This contract keeps him with New Orleans through the 2024-25 season, after which he will become an unrestricted free agent. Despite his solid performance, there have been persistent rumors and reports suggesting that the Pelicans are considering trading him. The team is reportedly looking to prioritize younger talents like Trey Murphy III, who is eligible for a rookie-scale extension, over-committing to a long-term extension with Ingram.
From the Warriors’ perspective, acquiring Ingram would provide a much-needed boost in scoring and playmaking. His ability to create his own shot and his proficiency from beyond the arc would complement Stephen Curry’s game, adding another layer of offensive threat. Furthermore, Ingram’s versatility as a forward would allow the Warriors to use him in various lineup configurations, enhancing their strategic flexibility.
The proposed trade package includes Andrew Wiggins, who averaged 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in the past season. Wiggins’ departure, along with the inclusion of Moses Moody and a 2026 first-round pick, would offer the Pelicans a blend of immediate talent and future potential. This trade would not only help the Warriors address their current needs but also set them up for sustained competitiveness in the highly competitive Western Conference.
3. Kyle Kuzma
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Warriors receive: Kyle Kuzma
Wizards receive: Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, 2027 first-round pick
Kyle Kuzma, a versatile forward for the Washington Wizards, had a solid 2023-24 season, averaging 22.2 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His performance has made him a valuable asset in the trade market, attracting interest from several teams looking to enhance their roster depth and scoring options.
Recently, Kuzma was at the center of trade discussions with the Dallas Mavericks. Despite Dallas offering a substantial package that included two first-round picks and other assets, Kuzma decided to stay with the Wizards. This decision was influenced by his desire to continue his role in Washington and his belief in the team’s future prospects.
Kuzma’s current contract, a four-year, $90 million deal, descends over time, making him a financially attractive option for teams concerned about long-term salary cap flexibility. This contract structure adds to his appeal, particularly for teams like the Warriors who are looking to manage their salary cap while adding significant talent.
The proposed trade would see the Warriors acquire Kuzma in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, and a 2027 first-round pick. Wiggins would provide the Wizards with an experienced wing player who can contribute immediately. Moody, a promising young player, along with the future first-round pick, adds value to the Wizards’ rebuilding efforts.
For the Warriors, Kuzma’s ability to score from multiple positions and his solid defensive capabilities would make him an excellent addition to their lineup. His versatility would allow the Warriors to deploy him in various roles, enhancing their strategic options on both ends of the court. With Kuzma, the Warriors would address the scoring void left by recent departures and strengthen their bid for a deep playoff run.
4. Keldon Johnson
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Warriors receive: Keldon Johnson
Spurs receive: Andrew Wiggins, 2026 first-round pick
Keldon Johnson has been a key player for the San Antonio Spurs, known for his scoring and versatility on the court. In the 2023-24 season, Johnson averaged 15.7 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. Despite his solid performance, his scoring numbers showed a slight regression compared to previous seasons. Johnson shot 45.4% from the field, indicating his efficiency remains a strong point.
Johnson is currently in the first year of a four-year, $74 million contract extension he signed with the Spurs. This contract includes $6 million in unlikely bonuses, making it a lucrative deal for the young forward. He is set to earn $20 million in the 2023-24 season, with decreasing annual salaries over the next few years, providing the Spurs with some financial flexibility.
There have been persistent trade rumors surrounding Johnson, particularly as the Spurs look to rebuild around their younger core. The potential trade package involving Andrew Wiggins and a 2026 first-round pick could provide the Spurs with an experienced player and a valuable future asset.
For the Warriors, acquiring Keldon Johnson would add a versatile forward who can contribute significantly on both ends of the court. His scoring, rebounding, and defensive capabilities would fit well with the Warriors’ existing lineup, providing depth and flexibility. Johnson’s ability to play multiple positions and his proven track record make him a valuable asset for a team looking to compete at the highest level in the Western Conference.
5. Clint Capela
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Warriors receive: Clint Capela
Hawks receive: Kevon Looney, Gary Payton II, 2026 first-round pick
Clint Capela has been a key player for the Atlanta Hawks, providing solid rebounding, shot-blocking, and defensive presence. In the 2023-24 NBA season, Capela averaged 11.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game, showcasing his ability to dominate the paint on both ends of the court.
Capela is on an expiring contract, set to earn $22.3 million in the 2024-25 season. This makes him an attractive trade asset for the Hawks, who are looking to retool their roster. The Hawks have already made significant moves this offseason, including selecting French prospect Zaccharie Risacher as the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. This decision signals a focus on developing young talent and building for the future.
Additionally, the Hawks traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans, further indicating their commitment to reshaping the team. The departure of Murray, who was a major contributor with 22.5 points, 6.4 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game, highlights the Hawks’ willingness to make bold moves to align their roster with their long-term vision as they brought Dyson Daniels to the team.
For the Warriors, acquiring Clint Capela would significantly enhance their frontcourt. Capela’s rebounding and defensive skills would address Golden State’s need for a strong interior presence, complementing their dynamic backcourt led by Stephen Curry. The trade package includes Kevon Looney, a reliable center known for his rebounding and defensive capabilities, and Gary Payton II, who provides excellent perimeter defense and versatility. The inclusion of a 2026 first-round pick offers the Hawks valuable future assets as they continue their rebuilding process.