The Golden State Warriors, with a 21-20 record and battling for a playoff spot, have become the center of trade speculation. With time running out for Stephen Curry and Draymond Green in their peak years, general manager Mike Dunleavy faces increasing pressure to make a move that keeps the team competitive.
After acquiring point guard Dennis Schröder in a December trade with the Brooklyn Nets, the Warriors struggled to find consistency, fueling rumors of another possible major trade. The last sound? A possible trade with the Utah Jazz for Collin Sexton and Walker Kessler.
The Jazz Connection: Sexton and Kessler
Utah’s rebuilding strategy makes Sexton and Kessler ideal candidates for a trade. Both players offer immense value with cost-controlled contracts, making them attractive to suitors like Golden State. According to reports, the Warriors are eager to beat out other suitors, including the Los Angeles Lakers, to secure the duo.
- Collin Sexton : A scoring dynamo averaging 18.3 points and 4.0 assists per game, Sexton possesses impressive efficiency, shooting 41.6% from three-point range and 90.1% from free throws. His ability to play as a combination point guard would make him a great fit alongside Curry and Schröder in Golden State’s backcourt.
- Walker Kessler : The 7-foot rim protector has quickly established himself as one of the best shot blockers in the league. Adding Kessler would significantly strengthen the Warriors’ interior defense, deterring opponents from attacking the paint.
The proposed exchange package
To get Sexton and Kessler, the Warriors are reportedly offering a package centered around:
- Brandin Pod Ziemia : The 2023-24 First Team All-Rookie point guard.
- Gary Payton II : A versatile defender and fan favorite.
- Kevon Looney : A reliable veteran and key rebounder.
- Capital de draft : Likely several future first-round picks.
This deal would represent a significant shake-up for Golden State but could address key needs: scoring depth and rim protection.
-The Lakers ambushed as competition
The Warriors aren’t the only team interested in Utah’s assets. The Lakers, currently in 6th place, could make a strong push to acquire Sexton and Kessler. Pairing Kessler with Anthony Davis would create a formidable defensive duo, while Sexton’s scoring could ease the pressure on LeBron James and Austin Reaves.
Golden State must act quickly to avoid a bidding war with their Los Angeles rivals.
High stakes for Golden State
With a record of 21-20 and occupying 11th place in the Western Conference, the Warriors face a significant challenge. Adding Sexton and Kessler could provide the spark they need to climb the rankings and overtake teams like the Lakers.
While the potential trade comes at a cost, the opportunity to maximize Curry’s remaining peak years could be worth the risk. Whether Dunleavy makes the decision or chooses to hold steady, the next few weeks will define Golden State’s 2025 season—and perhaps its future.
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