WITH A LITTLE MORE THAN seven minutes left against the Utah Jazz on Friday, Kyle Anderson positioned himself for a clear 3-pointer from the top of the key. As he released the shot, Draymond Green leapt from his seat on the bench, bouncing in eager anticipation.
The moment Anderson’s shot swished through the net, Green, Stephen Curry, and the Warriors’ bench erupted into celebration.
Moments later, Lauri Markkanen on the opposite side took an open 3-pointer from the wing, only to watch it clang off the rim during a dismal 4-for-17 shooting performance.
If Warriors general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. had gotten his way during trade discussions with Utah, Markkanen might have been celebrating alongside the Warriors, who were cruising toward a 41-point victory at the Delta Center. Instead, Markkanen stood with hands on his hips and a frustrated expression on his face.
Dunleavy sought to provide Curry and Green with championship reinforcements during the offseason by negotiating with the Jazz regarding Markkanen and with the LA Clippers about Paul George. While the Warriors would have ideally liked both players, acquiring them was unlikely since both the Clippers and Jazz demanded significant assets in return.
Editor’s Picks
2 Related
Dunleavy was not prepared to part with Golden State’s young talents and draft picks for a single star unless it involved a deal for a superstar capable of immediately propelling the Warriors toward a fifth title in 11 seasons.
George ultimately opted out of his contract, signing a four-year, $212 million max deal with the Philadelphia 76ers during free agency. Meanwhile, Markkanen secured a five-year, $238 million renegotiated extension with the Jazz, finalizing it on the day that rendered him ineligible for trade this season.
“That could have been trash, by the way,” Green remarked to ESPN earlier this month. “Markkanen coming here, we have no idea what that would look like. So, there was no contemplation regarding what might have been because we lack a clear vision of what it would entail.”
Green commended Dunleavy for exercising patience and avoiding a risky move for either George or Markkanen. He and Curry have expressed eagerness to see what they can achieve with this new group, currently sitting at 2-1, powered by a solid 12-man rotation.
This depth will soon face a challenge on Tuesday, when the Warriors face off against the New Orleans Pelicans (10 p.m. ET, TNT) without Curry (left ankle peroneal strain) and De’Anthony Melton (back), both sidelined for at least the next two games.
“We’ve added some really strong players,” Warriors head coach Steve Kerr stated to ESPN earlier this month. “We haven’t gone all-in or sacrificed our future at a time when it doesn’t make much sense. That kind of move is justified only when you have a genuine shot at landing a franchise-altering player while being on the verge of a championship.”
In the first three games, Buddy Hield has emerged as a significant contributor, capable of filling the perimeter gap left by Klay Thompson. The Warriors are keen on Melton’s versatile skill set and Anderson’s IQ. They believe these experienced players can integrate well with younger teammates like Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziems.
ki and Moses Moody, and they complement the skills of Curry, Green, and Andrew Wiggins.
“As long as we’re on the floor, we have a chance,” Green observed. “Once you enter the playoffs, it’s common to see opposing players fold under pressure and forget how to play basketball. This happens frequently.
“All we need is an opportunity.”
Brandin Podziemski, a guard for the Golden State Warriors, averaged 9.2 points per game with a shooting percentage of 45.4% in 74 games during his rookie season. He also recorded a 38.5% shooting rate from beyond the arc. Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images
TOWARDS THE END OF the first quarter of the Warriors’ preseason opener against the Clippers in Hawai’i, Podziemski found himself unexpectedly with the ball after a turnover, seizing a fast-break opportunity.
The second-year guard was still several steps away from the enormous “H” logo at midcourt in the Stan Sheriff Center at the University of Hawai’i when he drew the ball back with both hands above and behind his head. He then executed a superb bounce pass between two defenders to the speeding Gary Payton II, leading to a fast-break dunk.
While this may merely be a highlight from the preseason, the play showcases why not only the Warriors are optimistic about the 6-foot-4 versatile guard, who was selected 19th overall from Santa Clara last year.
The Jazz and Warriors engaged in multiple discussions regarding Markkanen. However, Golden State’s offers did not include Podziemski and lacked significant draft capital—both of which were deal breakers for the Jazz, according to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon.
Integrating the 7-foot Markkanen, who averaged 23.2 points and 8.2 rebounds last season while shooting 39.9% from three-point range, seemed like a theoretically good fit for Kerr’s offense. However, the reality was that the cost was too high for Golden State.
“Most people who negotiate with Danny Ainge lose,” Green remarked to ESPN regarding the Jazz CEO. ”So what’s the cost?”
Like the Clippers and other teams that face luxury tax penalties, the Warriors had to prepare for more stringent CBA regulations and operate accordingly. The ramifications of the second apron could potentially strip teams of access to the $5 million taxpayer midlevel exception, restrict the ability to aggregate salaries in trades, and even limit first-round draft picks seven years into the future, moving them to the back of the first round.
Wednesday, Oct. 30
Celtics at Pacers, 7 p.m.
Spurs at Thunder, 9:30 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 1
Magic at Cavaliers, 7 p.m.
Nuggets at Timberwolves, 9:30 p.m.
All times are in Eastern Time
“The toughest part is having a great owner who is always ready to spend,” Dunleavy explained to ESPN earlier this month. “We’ll navigate the CBA matters. However, it’s really about timing. You can’t reclaim years or make players younger. Balancing that while making moves that can elevate us now is what poses the challenge.”
The second apron is just one of several factors that hindered trade discussions regarding George, league sources mentioned to ESPN.
Earlier this summer, Green shared on his “Draymond Green Show” podcast that George wanted to join the Warriors. This would have necessitated the All-Star guard opting into the final year of his deal, which is worth $48.7 million, before being traded. However, Green stated that the Clippers were reluctant to cooperate with the Warriors.
“George has to decide whether to opt in as he approaches free agency,” Curry told reporters before training camp began. “Of course, we should definitely have that meeting, and I was involved in that process.”
To Green’s astonishment,
Due to the second apron, the Clippers were not inclined to accept any offers that might result in losing George without compensation. Moving George to the Warriors for players like Moody, along with expiring contracts and some draft capital, would have required them to absorb a substantial contract, specifically Wiggins’, who has three years remaining on an $85 million deal. This scenario would have hindered the Clippers’ ability to pursue another young star in the future, as indicated by team sources.
Sources within the league informed ESPN that the name Kuminga was never seriously entertained in discussions of significance between the Clippers and the Warriors.
If an opportunity arises to trade for a star before the deadline, the Warriors are expected to be actively involved. They possess future first-round picks and swap options, with the only obligation being the 2030 top-20-protected first-round pick owed to Washington from the Jordan Poole trade. Additionally, they have Kuminga, Podziemski, and Moody, in conjunction with the expiring contracts of Melton, Payton, and Kevon Looney, among others.
“There’s a time for that,” Kerr shared with ESPN. “We’re noticing teams across the league making such moves. However, for us, unless a franchise-altering superstar becomes available, one should consider how reckless that could be. Mike understands this and has managed the situation impeccably.”
Meanwhile, the Warriors still have Curry, who signed a one-year, $62.6 million extension with the team in late August and expressed his desire to remain a Warrior for life. Though Curry has previously faced issues with left ankle injuries, he mentioned to Kerr on Sunday night that this latest situation is “mild or moderate.” He is scheduled for a reevaluation on Friday.
The Warriors also continue to rely on Green, who, at 34, remains exceptional in his passing and defensive skills.
“We can’t afford to panic,” Green told ESPN. “Panicking in this league leads to five consecutive seasons of winning just 25 games.”
0:55
Who needs to step up for Golden State in Stephen Curry’s absence?
Marc J. Spears and Ramona Shelburne discuss the impact of Stephen Curry’s ankle injury on the Warriors.
THE PROSPECT OF George wearing a Warriors jersey is so unsettling to Ty Lue that the Clippers coach interrupted a question about it by exclaiming, “Uh, uh.”
“I didn’t want to face that, not at all,” Lue stated on Sunday.
“If you were to pair him [defensively] with Kuminga and Draymond, I wouldn’t want to see that combination. I’m relieved that didn’t occur.”
Lue’s concerns never materialized. Instead of acquiring an additional star, the Warriors brought in multiple players, resulting in what is considered the deepest roster of the Kerr era, enriched further by respected assistant coaches Terry Stotts and Jerry Stackhouse.
Kerr has started Curry, Wiggins, Kuminga, Green, and Trayce Jackson-Davis during the first three games. Off the bench, they have Hield, Podziemski, Melton, Looney, Moody, Payton, and Anderson. No player is averaging over 26.3 minutes per game, and every one of the 12 rotation players is getting at least 12 minutes, although these figures are influenced by a couple of lopsided games at the season’s outset.
Essential Fantasy Basketball Content
• Fantasy basketball 101: How to play
• 10 tips to win your league
• Projections | Top 150 rankings
• Experts: Our five favorite draft targets
• Mock draft: 10-team H2H points league
Facing his first competitive game of the season against the defensively skilled Clippers, Kerr allowed Anderson just four minutes on the court, while Green spent the last eight minutes sitting out as Looney spearheaded a rally that reduced a 13-point deficit to just one.
Kerr will need to replace Curry’s impressive stats of 18.3 points, 40.7% shooting from beyond the arc, 6.7 assists, and 5.3 rebounds per game through a collective effort while his ankle heals.
Wiggins, who is currently questionable for Tuesday’s matchup due to a lower back strain, leads the team with an average of 19.7 points per game and contributes significantly on the boards, grabbing 6.7 rebounds per game. Hield faced challenges for the first time as a Warrior against the Clippers, finishing with a 3-for-14 shooting performance, yet he maintains an average of 19 points per game. Podziemski is expected to see an uptick in playing time in the upcoming games.
“Someone texted me saying, ‘Hey, 12 guys. It’s a real democracy,'” Kerr remarked after the defeat to the Clippers. “I replied that as soon as we lose, it turns into communism. That’s just the reality. Results determine the evaluations, and that’s the business we’re in. I have to do what I believe is best for our team, and that perspective usually shifts throughout the season. We must be prepared to adapt.”
Dunleavy is also ready to make necessary adjustments. He has been in regular communication with Curry and Green, affirming that they share the common goal of contending while also exercising patience and striking when the trade market opportunities are favorable.
“The straightforward approach is that we’re knocking on many doors in search of potential deals,” Dunleavy stated. “If there are sellers, great. If not, we will continue to explore. We will find the right opportunity.”
Thus far, Green and Curry have endorsed the decisions made by Dunleavy, as well as those he chose not to make.
“In 2022, everyone thought the same way,” Green expressed. ”Nobody considered us contenders going into that season. We made no moves at the trade deadline, and we ended up winning it all.”
# Warriors Stay Patient in Pursuit of Contention: Balancing Roster Depth with Trade Opportunities
The Golden State Warriors, a powerhouse in the NBA, have mastered the art of balancing roster depth while remaining vigilant for trade opportunities. This strategy has been pivotal in maintaining their competitiveness and ensuring they remain a championship contender. In this article, we will explore how the Warriors navigate these dynamics, the benefits of their approach, and practical tips for other teams looking to replicate their success.
## Understanding Roster Depth
### What is Roster Depth?
Roster depth refers to the number of quality players available on a team. A deep roster allows for better rotation, mitigates injuries, and provides various tactical options for the coaching staff.
### Importance of Roster Depth for the Warriors
– **Injury Management**: The Warriors have faced several injury challenges over the years. A deep roster allows them to weather these storms effectively.
– **Player Development**: With a robust bench, younger players can develop their skills in a supportive environment.
– **Tactical Flexibility**: A diverse roster enables different playing styles, keeping opponents on their toes.
## The Trade Landscape
### Analyzing Trade Opportunities
The NBA is a dynamic league, and trade opportunities can arise unexpectedly. The Warriors have been strategic in identifying potential trades that can enhance their roster without sacrificing depth.
#### Key Considerations for Trades
– **Player Fit**: Ensuring that new acquisitions complement existing star players like Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
– **Financial Implications**: Evaluating player contracts and salary cap impacts is crucial in making informed decisions.
– **Team Chemistry**: Maintaining a harmonious locker room is essential for sustained success.
## Balancing Act: Roster Depth vs. Trade Opportunities
### The Warriors’ Approach
The Warriors strike a delicate balance between preserving roster depth and pursuing trades. Here is how they achieve this:
1. **Scout and Evaluate Talent**: The Warriors maintain a robust scouting system, identifying players who can fill specific roles if traded.
2. **Capitalize on Draft Picks**: The team understands the value of draft picks, which can be used to trade for established players or to develop young talent.
3. **Leverage G-League Affiliates**: Their G-League team serves as a breeding ground for talent, allowing the Warriors to have players ready to step up when needed.
### The Role of Analytics
The Warriors utilize data-driven approaches to evaluate player performance, health, and fit within the team structure. Advanced analytics help in making informed decisions about trades and roster management.
## Benefits of a Patient Approach
### Long-Term Success
The Warriors’ patience in nurturing talent and evaluating trade opportunities has paid off significantly. Some benefits of this strategy include:
– **Sustained Competitiveness**: The ability to maintain a deep roster ensures the team remains competitive year after year.
– **Flexibility in Roster Moves**: Keeping a balanced roster allows the Warriors to be more aggressive when lucrative trade opportunities arise.
– **Fan Engagement**: A successful and competitive team keeps fans invested, boosting attendance and merchandise sales.
### Practical Tips for Other Teams
1. **Invest in Scouting**: Establish a comprehensive scouting network to identify talent, both in college and overseas.
2. **Nurture Young Talent**: Provide ample playing time for younger players to develop their skills.
3. **Utilize Advanced Analytics**: Embrace technology and data analytics to assess player performance and potential trade targets.
## Case Studies: Successful Trades and Roster Management
### Kevin Durant Acquisition
One of the most notable trades in Warriors history was acquiring Kevin Durant in 2016. This move exemplified their strategy of balancing roster depth with trade opportunities.
| Year | Trade Details | Impact on Roster Depth |
|——|——————————-|———————————-|
| 2016 | Durant signed as a free agent | Added elite scoring and playmaking, but required careful management of existing stars. |
| 2017 | Minor trades to adjust bench | Focused on depth players who complemented the starting five. |
### The Role of Draymond Green
Draymond Green’s development into an All-Star player showcases the Warriors’ commitment to player development and roster depth.
| Year | Draft Position | Development Phase | Contribution to Team |
|——|—————-|——————-|———————-|
| 2012 | 2nd Round | Early Career | Defensive leader, playmaker |
| 2015 | All-Star | Peak Performance | Key contributor in championship runs |
## First-Hand Experience: Insights from Players and Coaches
Former players and coaches have often spoken about the Warriors’ patient approach. Here are some insights:
– **Steve Kerr**, Head Coach: “We focus on building a culture where players can thrive. Patience is key; we don’t rush into trades unless it benefits the team in the long run.”
– **Klay Thompson**, Guard: “Having a deep roster allows us to play our best basketball night in and night out. It’s a luxury that great teams need.”
## Conclusion
The Golden State Warriors exemplify the importance of balancing roster depth with trade opportunities. Their patient approach has allowed them to remain competitive while developing talent and seizing strategic trades. Other teams can learn from the Warriors’ model by investing in scouting, focusing on player development, and utilizing analytics to enhance their roster management strategies. By adopting similar principles, teams can increase their chances of achieving long-term success in the NBA.
