When it comes to trade season in the NBA, betting big can either reshape a franchise-or leave it scrambling if the stars don’t align. That’s the tightrope the Golden State Warriors are walking right now.
Their top prize? Giannis Antetokounmpo.
But if that dream doesn’t materialize, they’ll need a strong Plan B. And according to recent reports, that fallback option might be Memphis’ Jaren Jackson Jr.-a move that could quietly reshape the Warriors' roster in a big way.
Let’s break it down.
Jackson, a 6-foot-11 forward with a Defensive Player of the Year trophy on his shelf and two All-Star nods to his name, brings a rare blend of length, mobility, and shooting touch. He’s just 26, smack in the middle of his prime, and he’s the kind of two-way presence that could stabilize Golden State’s frontcourt for years.
He’s not an elite rebounder-averaging 5.8 boards this season-but that’s not the full picture. What he lacks on the glass, he makes up for with high-level rim protection and the ability to stretch the floor.
This season, Jackson is putting up 19.0 points, 1.5 blocks, and shooting 47.5% from the field, including 35.5% from deep. That’s not just solid-it’s the kind of production that fits snugly into the Warriors’ system, especially alongside a healthy Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. His ability to knock down pick-and-pop threes or attack off the dribble in either direction adds a dynamic element to the Warriors’ offense that’s been missing since their championship core began to age.
Now, let’s talk cost. The proposed deal would send Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, a 2029 pick swap, a 2031 pick swap, and a 2032 first-rounder to Memphis in exchange for Jackson.
That’s a hefty package, especially considering Kuminga’s recent flashes of star potential. But if the Warriors are serious about maximizing the remainder of Curry’s window, they may need to make bold moves-and Jackson fits that bill.
Financially, it’s a tight squeeze. Jackson is set to make $49 million next season, which would push the Warriors even further into luxury tax territory. But that’s been the cost of contention in the Bay for years, and if the front office believes Jackson can be a difference-maker in a playoff run, it’s a price they might be willing to pay.
If the deal goes through, Golden State could roll into next season with a core of Curry, Jackson, Jimmy Butler, Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, and Will Richard, plus the potential to retain restricted free agents Gui Santos and Quinten Post. That’s an eight-man rotation with playoff chops and a mix of experience, defense, and shot-making.
The Warriors have always been bold when it comes to roster construction. If Giannis is the moonshot, Jackson might just be the next best thing-an elite defender who can space the floor, protect the rim, and give Curry the support he needs to chase one more ring.