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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

For the last decade, supporters of the Golden State Warriors have grown accustomed to winning. They are an organization who have won four championships in the last nine seasons. However, things haven’t gone according to the script for the Warriors this season. For a team with title aspirations, the Dubs currently occupy a position outside the Play-In tournament spots. Their pedigree and caliber make it even harder for Dubs’ fans to digest the current slump in performances the Warriors have endured.

This season, the Warriors have looked disjointed and lack that killer mentality that has made them one of the most successful teams in NBA history. Key contributors to the Warriors’ 2022 title victory, such as Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins, have experienced a notable decline in both their performances and production. Under such trying circumstances, the Warriors need to reshuffle their current roster in order to revitalize their title hopes.

The Warriors have been reportedly interested in Toronto Raptors’ Pascal Siakam. However, a bidding war is imminent, with several teams expressing interest in securing Siakam’s services. The Warriors lack the required trade assets to compete with teams like the Pacers and the OKC Thunder in this scenario. So, what other option do the Warriors have?

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1. Jerami Grant

The Warriors’ hierarchy could orchestrate a trade for the Blazers’ 29-year-old forward, Jerami Grant. On paper, Grant fits in perfectly in the Warriors rotation as a secondary scorer, who can either create his own shot or spot-up from beyond the arc. Surprisingly, the Warriors have been a mediocre 3pt-shooting team. They are currently shooting 36.9% from beyond the arc, which is the 13th best in the league. Grant, who has a 3pt% of 41.1% this season, would massively improve the Warriors in that regard.

USA Today via Reuters

Moreover, adding Grant to the Warriors could address another significant issue the Dubs have faced this season. They have been one of the worst defensive teams in the league. The Dubs have a defensive rating of 118.2, the 7th worst mark in the NBA. Jerami Grant has the potential to become an elite defender due to his size and ability to guard multiple positions.

However, the Portland Trail Blazers would demand a hefty package for one of their best players. The proposed trade package is likely to revolve around promising talents like Jonathan Kuminga or Moses Moody, complemented by a selection of the Warriors’ first-round draft picks spanning from 2026 to 2031.

2. Jarrett Allen

This season, despite displaying glimpses of potential, the Cleveland Cavaliers have faced challenges with their “twin-tower” strategy, featuring Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. With both Allen and Mobley in the starting lineup, the Cavs have looked devoid of any offensive inspiration. With Mobley being the younger and more promising than Allen, the Cavs would listen to offers for Allen. The Warriors should definitely try to acquire Allen, as he solves multiple problem areas of the Warriors.

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Firstly, the Warriors need a player who is adequate in rim-protecting and is a dominating presence in the paint, and Allen ticks those boxes. The Dubs need an imposing presence, who can go toe to toe with opposing big-men, and Jarrett Allen would provide exactly that. While Looney has endeared himself to the Warriors’ faithful, Allen is a much more complete player.

Allen has averaged 14.8 points, 10 rebounds and 3 assists per game this season. However, his stats could potentially rise if he plays with Chris Paul, who has a history of improving young big-men. Paul’s pick-and-roll with Allen could be deadly. Acquiring Allen should be near the top of their wishlist, as he could prove to be the difference in the postseason.

3. Mikal Bridges

Although it’s improbable, acquiring Mikal Bridges through a trade could significantly alter the course of the Warriors’ season. Mikal Bridges is a crucial part of the Brooklyn Nets’ plans, but with him at the helm, the Nets have settled in the middle of the standings. Bridges might be better suited for a secondary or supporting role rather than leading a team.

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USA Today via Reuters

3-and-D wings, adept at creating their shots, have become some of the most important players in the NBA, and Mikal Bridges stands out as one of the best in this role. Additionally, Bridges boasts an impressive injury record, holding the record for the longest active streak by playing in 430 consecutive games. A player of Bridges’ quality and caliber would surely increase the ceiling of the current Warriors’ roster.

Read More: Having Paid $687M in Penalties in the Last 8 Years, Warriors Face Massive Dilemma Regarding the Future of Stephen Curry and Co

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However, players like him won’t come cheap. The Warriors would have to offer a mammoth package to the Nets, and still, it wouldn’t guarantee a Mikal Bridges trade. But, a potential trade package would certainly include all three of the Warriors’ first-round draft picks as well as Moses Moody, Andrew Wiggins, and possibly even Jonathan Kuminga. With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Warriors’ hierarchy must be decisive, and try to improve the current roster because players like Stephen Curry are like stardust, they come once in a generation. Who do you think is the best option? Let us know in the comments below!

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