As the NBA trade deadline inches closer, the Golden State Warriors find themselves at a crossroads. Sitting at an even 15-15, they’ve shown flashes of brilliance-largely thanks to the still-sensational Stephen Curry and the veteran presence of Jimmy Butler when available-but the supporting cast hasn’t held up its end of the bargain. If Golden State wants to reassert itself in the Western Conference playoff picture, a significant roster shakeup might be less of an option and more of a necessity.
Enter the Boston Celtics.
Now, Boston might not be the first team that comes to mind when you think “potential seller,” especially with an 18-11 record that’s kept them in the thick of the Eastern Conference race. But this is where things get interesting.
The Celtics have already made a series of moves that suggest they’re thinking long-term-offloading Kristaps Porzingis and Jrue Holiday in cost-cutting deals after Jayson Tatum went down with an Achilles injury. And while their current record complicates any assumption that they’re fully rebuilding, the direction of their next move could have a ripple effect across the league.
One name that should be circled on Golden State’s radar: Sam Hauser.
Hauser fits the mold of exactly what the Warriors need right now-an affordable, floor-spacing wing who can slot into their rotation without disrupting the core. He’s averaging 6.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.4 assists in just under 22 minutes per game, and while his three-point percentage has dipped to 35.7% this season, there’s reason to believe that’s more of a temporary slump than a new norm. Hauser has a career mark of 44% from deep, and in a system like Golden State’s-where off-ball movement and spacing are king-he could thrive.
From a roster-building standpoint, the appeal is clear. Hauser’s contract is set at just over $10 million for the 2025-26 season, making him a manageable addition without requiring the Warriors to part with a key young piece like Jonathan Kuminga. In fact, a package involving Buddy Hield and Trayce Jackson-Davis could be enough to make the math work-especially if a third team is brought in to help Boston continue trimming salary.
Of course, all of this hinges on what Boston decides to do. If they believe Tatum can return and make a run through what’s shaping up to be a wide-open Eastern Conference, they might hold on to players like Hauser. But if their priority remains financial flexibility and long-term planning, Hauser becomes a prime trade chip-and Golden State should be ready to pounce.
The Warriors don’t need a full-scale overhaul. What they need are reliable, complementary pieces who can knock down open shots, defend their position, and fit within the flow of their offense.
Hauser checks those boxes. And if the Celtics signal that they’re open for business, expect Golden State to be one of the first teams on the line.