Andrew Wiggins finds himself at a pivotal moment with the Golden State Warriors. Once a key contributor to their 2021-22 championship run, his recent drop in form has fans buzzing with trade rumors. Yet, as the team’s third-highest-paid player behind Steph Curry and Draymond Green, why are the Warriors holding onto him? Could they be banking on a Wiggins resurgence, or is time running out for the forward to prove his worth? Let’s dive into the burning questions surrounding his future.

With the monetary dilemma the Golden State Warriors find themselves in, patience is the only way out. Andrew Wiggins is indeed an important member of the team. His 17.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in 73 games secured their 6th championship. Unfortunately, Wiggins’ performance has declined, averaging 13.2 points in 71 games last season.

Meanwhile, Joe Lacob has always designed the team around their main player—Stephen Curry. The Baby-Faced Assassin’s importance on the team is undeniable. But where does Andrew Wiggins fit into this equation? Andrew Wiggins’ production in 2023-24 has been an eyesore in the transfer market for the Warriors. NBA writer Shaun Powell noted that “Wiggins’ production once again dipped below what he contributed to the 2021-22 championship team, leaving the basketball world to gossip about his future in the Bay.” But now with Klay Thompson off to the Mavericks, there is a possibility that the Dubs might consider keeping Wiggins. However, the chances aren’t as bright as one would’ve wished. “It’s likely the Warriors could attempt to send him elsewhere by the trade deadline if his southward trend continues, although his value on the market seems shaky at this point,” Powell added.

Moreover, the severe salary cap dilemma following Captain Klay‘s sign-and-trade has left the cash-strapped Warriors to round out the rotation with cheap replacements. But, the true problem here is Andrew Wiggins’ value in the trade market. To say it in a subtle tone, the 29YO stands on extremely shaky grounds, with not many teams expressing their interest in claiming him. Could there be a team eager to snag Andrew Wiggins? The intrigue is building—who might step up?

If the Warriors pitch Andrew Wiggins’ trade wisely, they could land a $215 million star

As you know, the Golden State Warriors are exploring trade options as they seek to land a star player before the upcoming season. They’ve shown interest in players like Lauri Markkanen and Paul George. Meanwhile, Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale suggests that the Chicago Bulls‘ Zach LaVine is a potential target. The Warriors could trade Andrew Wiggins, Kevon Looney, and Gary Payton II for LaVine, who is in year three of a $215 million deal. Despite LaVine’s costly contract, Favale notes that trading for LaVine will boost the Warriors’ competitiveness. While replacing Andrew Wiggins could hit their pockets hard, it could lead them to a ‘better’ player.

Injuries have hampered the Bulls star’s recent performance, limiting him to just 25 games last season and lowering his shooting percentages. Therefore some analysts also believe that Zach LaVine isn’t the right choice for Steve Kerr’s squad. Thus keeping Andrew Wiggins who is a reliable hooper should work out for the Warriors. To bounce back from their 10th-place finish, the team may need LaVine’s skills if other options fail.

Will the Warriors wait for the trade deadline to see how Andrew Wiggins performs? Well, this could be a possibility, because if he redeems himself then the front office could be convinced to keep him with Steph and others. However, the rumors about replacements and trading haven’t been denied at all. Hopefully, the team will come up with some information about these rumors in the upcoming days. Surely both NBA fans and Andrew Wiggins himself are sitting on the edge to know “what’s next” for them.