The Golden State Warriors find themselves at a crossroads. After what looked like a solid start to the season, they’ve slipped to a 13-14 record heading into Thursday’s matchup with the Phoenix Suns. For a franchise accustomed to contending, mediocrity isn’t just disappointing-it’s a wake-up call.
Let’s be honest: the concerns about the aging core weren’t exactly breaking news. Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green have all logged a lot of miles, and lately, they’ve had trouble staying on the floor together. Injuries have disrupted any chance of building consistency, and the chemistry that once defined this team has looked a little off.
Behind the scenes, there’s growing urgency. According to league chatter, Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy and team owner Joe Lacob are expected to be aggressive at the trade deadline. And based on the way this roster is trending, that aggression feels warranted.
“The energy’s been low, the veterans are getting frustrated, something needs to change at this point,” said NBA insider Brett Siegel on Clutch Scoops. That sentiment echoes what we’re seeing on the court-flat stretches, sluggish rotations, and a team that doesn’t quite look like itself.
One name that continues to surface in trade talks is Jonathan Kuminga. The 21-year-old forward has all the tools-athleticism, length, upside-but he’s struggled to carve out a consistent role in Steve Kerr’s system. If the Warriors are going to make a move, Kuminga is likely the key piece they’ll dangle.
There’s been speculation about potential targets, including big men like Domantas Sabonis from the Kings and Ivica Zubac from the Clippers. But according to Siegel, those options aren’t currently in play.
“Sabonis, Zubac-I don’t think that either one of them is even on their radar at this time,” Siegel noted.
Still, the need for frontcourt help is real. The Warriors are undersized up front, and it’s showing.
They’re getting beat on the glass, struggling to protect the rim, and lacking the kind of physical presence that can tilt a playoff series. If they do move Kuminga, they’ll likely look for a two-way forward-someone who can defend multiple positions and stretch the floor.
Think Andrew Wiggins in his 2022 Finals form. That’s the mold they need to fill.
Athleticism is another glaring issue. This team just doesn’t have the same burst it once did, and that’s a problem when you’re trying to keep up with the speed and spacing of today’s NBA. If they don’t inject some youth and bounce into the rotation, it could be a short postseason run-if they even get there.
Latest NBA intel with @TomerAzarly and @BrettSiegelNBA — Clutch Scoops 12/18/2025 https://t.co/bWLHveuV0g
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) December 18, 2025
Another name floating around is Michael Porter Jr. of the Brooklyn Nets. The fit makes sense on paper-Porter can shoot, he’s long, and he’s got the kind of upside that could revitalize the Warriors’ wing depth.
But pulling off that trade won’t be easy. Porter’s contract and Brooklyn’s own plans complicate the picture.
Bottom line: the Warriors are at a tipping point. The core that brought banners to the Bay still has flashes of brilliance, but the supporting cast needs a jolt.
With the trade deadline looming, expect Dunleavy and Lacob to explore every possible angle. Because if they don’t, this season could go from frustrating to forgettable in a hurry.