The Golden State Warriors have been busy behind the scenes, making waves with their ambitious trade pursuits. Their quest for a superstar led them to eye Giannis Antetokounmpo, but as expected, the deal proved too costly and complex to finalize.
However, the Warriors didn’t stop there. According to veteran insider Marc Stein, they made a strong push for Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard, who is enjoying one of the standout seasons of his career.
On paper, Leonard seems like a more feasible target than Giannis. The Bucks would demand a hefty package for Antetokounmpo, while the Clippers, amid an investigation into Leonard's dealings with Aspiration, might be more inclined to negotiate.
Having already moved James Harden and Ivica Zubac, the Clippers could consider parting with Leonard for a more reasonable price. Plus, Leonard's shooting prowess would complement a Warriors roster featuring Draymond Green and the currently sidelined Jimmy Butler.
Though no deal came to fruition, the Warriors have shown they’re committed to surrounding Stephen Curry with top-tier talent as he advances in his career. Their pursuit of stars didn’t stop with Antetokounmpo.
After missing out on him, they secured Kristaps Porziņģis in a trade for Jonathan Kuminga, a move that’s been beneficial for Golden State. Looking ahead, the Warriors are likely to aim for a long-term deal with Porziņģis in free agency.
However, their hunt for stars is far from over. While Antetokounmpo remains a top target for many, Leonard might be a more attainable option.
This hinges on the outcome of the NBA's investigation into Leonard and Aspiration. If Leonard's contract remains intact, the Warriors could make another attempt to acquire him.
They’d likely use Butler's expiring contract and draft picks to meet the Clippers' demands. Such a trade could see the Warriors enter next season with a formidable lineup of Curry, Leonard, Green, and Porziņģis.
Though this core is older and potentially more injury-prone, their combined skill sets could create a formidable challenge for any opponent.
For now, the Warriors might face Leonard and the Clippers in the Play-In Tournament, with Golden State sitting in the No. 10 seed and the Clippers at No. 8 in the Western Conference. Both teams are gearing up for active offseasons.
The Clippers are embarking on a mini rebuild after trading Harden and Zubac, and with Leonard's value peaking, trading him could be strategic. Meanwhile, the Warriors are determined to build a championship-caliber team around Curry as his illustrious career winds down.
While the future of Leonard's situation remains uncertain, the Warriors are poised to make their move if the opportunity arises.