Warriors’ Top Targets Amid Jimmy Butler Rumors, Zach LaVine Kings Trade
Warriors’ Top Targets Amid Jimmy Butler Rumors, Zach LaVine Kings Trade0 of 3
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The Golden State Warriors quickly lost out on a pair of trade targets on Sunday.
ESPN’s Shams Charania reported that the Chicago Bulls sent star swingman Zach LaVine to the Sacramento Kings as part of a three-team deal that also involved the San Antonio Spurs. Shortly after that, ESPN’s Brian Windhorst reported that Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler informed Golden State that he’s unwilling to sign an extension, forcing the team to end its pursuit of him.
With LaVine and Butler now off the board, the Warriors are losing options as the Feb. 6 trade deadline draws nearer.
Let’s take a look at some of the top remaining targets for Golden State following Sunday’s developments.
Chicago Bulls C Nikola VuÄeviÄ1 of 3
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NBA insider Marc Stein reported that the Warriors “did seriously explore trade constructions” that would’ve acquired LaVine and veteran center Nikola VuÄeviÄ from the Bulls prior to LaVine being sent to the Kings. However, Golden State reportedly “opted to focus on other trade pursuits.”
Now that LaVine isn’t available, the Warriors would be wise to focus on trying to acquire VuÄeviÄ.
The big man would be a significant upgrade offensively over center Kevon Looney, who’s splitting time at the position with 2024 second-round pick Quinten Post. He would also provide a reliable third option alongside stars Stephen Curry and Draymond Green.
Perhaps it would be easier for Golden State to swing a deal for VuÄeviÄ alone rather than trying to couple him with LaVine.
Utah Jazz PF John Collins2 of 3
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The Warriors fell short in their pursuit of Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen last summer, so they could pivot by pursuing his frontcourt mate.
Jazz forward John Collins is having his best year in quite some time. His average of 18.0 points per game is his highest since his third season in the NBA in 2019-20 when he was still a member of the Atlanta Hawks. He’s also adding 8.2 rebounds, a career-high 2.3 assists, 1.0 steals and 1.0 blocks.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype recently reported that the Warriors “inquired about potential frontcourt upgrades” and named Collins among the players they explored.
Adding Collins would provide Golden State with a veteran presence alongside Curry and Green and improve the team’s athleticism at both ends of the floor.
Washington Wizards C Jonas ValanÄiÅ«nas3 of 3
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Veteran center Jonas ValanÄiÅ«nas seems to be a perennial trade candidate, and his first year with the Washington Wizards is no different.
ValanÄiÅ«nas is arguably the second-best center on the trade market behind VuÄeviÄ, so the Warriors would have a strong fallback option if discussions with the Bulls discontinue.
The 32-year-old is averaging 11.5 points, 8.1 rebounds and 2.2 assists, but it should be noted that he’s played a limited role in Washington and has seen under 20 minutes of action for the first time since the start of the 2018-19 campaign before the Toronto Raptors traded him to the Memphis Grizzlies.
Golden State would be gaining a defensive anchor who can contribute consistently when called upon if it’s able to land ValanÄiÅ«nas.
