The Golden State Warriors are once again in the trade conversation, and this time, the focus is shifting away from Michael Porter Jr. and toward a different target: Brooklyn Nets center Nic Claxton.
Golden State had been loosely linked to Porter Jr. in recent weeks, but according to new league chatter, that possibility is cooling off. Instead, the Warriors are now eyeing Claxton - a move that could address one of the most pressing needs on their roster: size and rim protection.
Michael Scotto of HoopsHype recently told the YES Network that the Warriors are among a group of teams showing interest in Claxton. He also mentioned the Indiana Pacers, who are in the market for a frontcourt upgrade after losing Myles Turner. Claxton, who’s in the final year of his deal, is drawing attention as a potential trade chip for a Nets team that’s still figuring out its long-term direction.
"A couple of teams that have had some interest. You look at the Indiana Pacers right now, who are actively looking on the market in general to find an upgrade after they lost Myles Turner. You’ve also got the Golden State Warriors, who are looking at various center options across the league as well,” Scotto said.
That’s notable for a Warriors team that has been trying to find the right balance between developing young talent and staying competitive during the twilight of Stephen Curry’s prime. And Claxton, with his ability to switch defensively, protect the rim, and finish around the basket, fits the mold of the kind of big man Golden State could use.
The Nets, meanwhile, are at a bit of a crossroads. Head coach Jordi Fernandez and GM Sean Marks have to decide whether Claxton is part of their long-term core or if they’re better off moving him while his value is high. Along with Cam Thomas and Porter Jr., Claxton is one of several Nets players who could be on the move either before the trade deadline or in the offseason.
Erik Slater of ClutchPoints added more context to the situation, noting that while the Warriors are unlikely to swing for a superstar following Jimmy Butler’s season-ending ACL injury, Claxton could be a more realistic - and cost-effective - option.
“Claxton could offer a cheaper alternative as they aim to remain competitive around Stephen Curry,” Slater said.
And the need is real. Golden State’s current center rotation includes Al Horford, Quinten Post, and Trayce Jackson-Davis - a group that lacks the athleticism and rim protection Claxton brings.
Horford, while still a smart veteran presence, is well into the back half of his career. Post and Jackson-Davis are intriguing young pieces, but neither has proven to be a game-changer in the paint just yet.
Financially, the Warriors have some flexibility to make a deal work. According to Slater, a potential trade could involve Moses Moody ($11.6 million), Buddy Hield ($9.2 million), and Horford ($5.7 million) - all of whom could be used to match Claxton’s salary. There’s also been talk of a three-team scenario involving Jonathan Kuminga, which would further complicate - or potentially sweeten - the deal depending on how the pieces align.
The Warriors and Nets have a bit of trade history and plenty of mutual interest. With the deadline fast approaching, this is one to keep an eye on.
Golden State has a clear need, Brooklyn has a valuable asset, and the league’s trade market is just starting to heat up. If the Warriors want to shore up their interior defense and make a serious push in the West, Claxton might just be the right move at the right time.