As the Golden State Warriors navigate a turbulent stretch in their season, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: standing pat might not be an option. With the team struggling to find consistency, the front office is reportedly eyeing a blockbuster move-one that could reshape the franchise’s future and potentially bring another title window into focus.
But the cost? It might involve saying goodbye to one of the most iconic players in team history.
According to reports, there’s only one scenario where the Warriors would consider trading Draymond Green-and that’s if it brings back Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. That’s the level we’re talking about here.
This isn’t about tweaking around the edges. This is about swinging for the fences.
To make the money work in a deal of that magnitude, Golden State would have to part with either Green or Jimmy Butler. And while Butler is widely regarded as the team’s second-best player behind Steph Curry, Green’s importance as the emotional and defensive anchor of the dynasty can’t be overstated. But loyalty only goes so far when the prize is a two-time MVP and one of the most dominant two-way players the league has ever seen.
Let’s be real: if Giannis is on the table, everyone not named Steph Curry should be up for discussion.
A potential trade package being floated includes Draymond Green, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and four first-round picks in exchange for Giannis and his brother Thanasis Antetokounmpo. That’s a hefty price tag, no doubt. But it’s also the kind of all-in swing that could catapult the Warriors back into the NBA’s elite.
From Milwaukee’s side, this isn’t just about parting with a superstar-it’s about replenishing a depleted asset chest. The Bucks are short on future picks, and adding four first-rounders would give them real flexibility moving forward.
Kuminga, still just scratching the surface of his potential, could be an intriguing long-term piece. And while Green and Hield aren’t long-term solutions, they bring veteran experience and could help bridge the gap if the Bucks decide to retool rather than rebuild.
For Golden State, the upside is obvious. Pairing Giannis with Steph Curry and Jimmy Butler would instantly give them one of the most formidable trios in the league. Even with the rise of the Oklahoma City Thunder and other Western Conference contenders, a core of Giannis, Steph, and Butler would make the Warriors a legitimate threat come playoff time.
Of course, the emotional toll of trading Draymond Green can’t be ignored. He’s been the heartbeat of the Warriors for over a decade, the guy who brings the fire, the edge, the defensive IQ that helped power four championships.
But sentiment doesn’t win titles. Talent does.
And Giannis is a generational talent who could extend Curry’s championship window by several years.
Yes, it would cost Golden State dearly. Yes, it would mark the end of an era.
But if the goal is to win now-and with Steph still playing at an elite level, it should be-then going all-in for Giannis isn’t just a bold move. It might be the only move that truly changes the game.