The Golden State Warriors made their move ahead of the Feb. 5 trade deadline, swinging a major deal that sent Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis. It was a bold midseason shakeup aimed at giving Stephen Curry and company a fresh frontcourt presence for the stretch run. But as the dust settles, the Warriors may not be done retooling just yet.
With Giannis Antetokounmpo staying put in Milwaukee for now, Golden State chose to hold onto key assets rather than empty the war chest. That decision could pay dividends this summer. The Warriors have positioned themselves to be aggressive again when the offseason arrives - and the rumor mill is already churning.
One name that continues to surface in league circles is Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo. The three-time All-Star has long been on Golden State’s radar, and the interest hasn’t faded. While there’s no indication that Adebayo is actively seeking a trade, he’s the kind of player who fits the Warriors’ mold: versatile, defensively elite, and capable of elevating a contender.
Adebayo has quietly put together another strong season in Miami, averaging 18.3 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 1.0 steals per game. He’s shooting 44.6% from the field and a career-best 34.2% from deep - a notable development in his offensive evolution. His ability to operate in the post, drive decisively, and stretch the floor makes him a unique weapon, especially when you factor in his defensive presence in the paint.
Now imagine pairing that with Porzingis. The potential frontcourt duo would give Golden State one of the most dynamic and balanced big-man combinations in the league.
Porzingis brings length, rim protection, and floor spacing. Adebayo brings strength, mobility, and defensive versatility.
Together, they could anchor a front line that complements Curry’s perimeter brilliance while shoring up the Warriors’ interior on both ends.
Of course, pulling off a deal for Adebayo wouldn’t be simple. Miami values him highly - and for good reason. But if the Heat ever look to pivot or if Adebayo himself seeks a new challenge, the Warriors are one of the few teams with the assets and ambition to make a serious play.
It’s also worth noting that Warriors owner Joe Lacob has made it clear he wants to stay aggressive in building championship-caliber rosters - across both the NBA and WNBA, where he owns the Golden State Valkyries. That mindset could fuel a push for a player like Adebayo, who fits the timeline of both the present and the near future.
For now, it’s all hypothetical. But Warriors fans should keep an eye on this one. Adebayo may not be the biggest name in trade rumors right now, but his impact is undeniable - and in Golden State’s system, his game might finally get the spotlight it deserves.