The Warriors made waves at the trade deadline by landing Kristaps Porzingis, a move that gives them a versatile big with floor-spacing ability and rim protection. But what’s now coming to light is just how close they were to pulling off a very different kind of deal-one that would have brought former Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Bay instead.
According to league intel, Jackson Jr. wasn’t just a name floating around Golden State’s front office-he was their Plan B after an ambitious (and ultimately unsuccessful) pursuit of Giannis Antetokounmpo. That’s right, the Warriors had their sights set high. When it became clear Milwaukee wasn’t moving the two-time MVP, the focus shifted to Memphis and Jackson Jr.
The Warriors were serious about it, too. Talks with the Grizzlies progressed to the point where Golden State began exploring how to structure a real offer.
But as the deadline approached, a few key factors complicated things. First, Jimmy Butler’s injury reportedly intensified the bidding war for Jackson Jr., pushing his price tag even higher.
Second, the Grizzlies weren’t exactly looking for a light return. They wanted a significant haul-three draft picks, plus players.
That’s where Golden State hit the brakes.
The Warriors’ best offer, according to sources, included two draft picks, a pick swap, Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and another contract to make the salaries work. That’s a hefty package, and while it shows how much they valued Jackson Jr.’s potential fit, it also highlights where they drew the line. Memphis had interest in Moses Moody as well, but Golden State was reportedly reluctant to include both Moody and that level of draft capital.
In the end, the Warriors pivoted and completed the trade for Porzingis, sending out Kuminga and Hield in that deal instead. It was a move that came with fewer long-term risks-Porzingis brings a different skill set, but the price tag, both in terms of assets and future flexibility, was more palatable.
This all underscores the delicate balance the Warriors are trying to strike. They’re still in win-now mode with Steph Curry and Draymond Green anchoring the roster, but they’re also not willing to mortgage the future entirely. That’s especially true when it comes to draft picks, which remain a key part of their long-term planning.
Had they landed Jackson Jr., the defensive upside and youth would’ve been intriguing. But the cost was steep, and the Warriors weren’t ready to go all-in on a player who, while immensely talented, still comes with questions about consistency and durability.
Instead, they opted for a move that keeps them competitive now without putting the cupboard bare for later. It’s a calculated decision-and one that shows Golden State is still playing the long game, even as they chase another title in the Curry era.