As the NBA trade deadline looms on February 5, the Golden State Warriors find themselves at a pivotal crossroads. With a roster that’s struggled to find consistency this season, the front office is actively exploring ways to retool - and the focus, it seems, is on the wing.
Two names have surfaced in league chatter: DeMar DeRozan and a particularly familiar face - Andrew Wiggins. Yes, the same Wiggins who played a critical role in Golden State’s 2022 title run and who recently returned to the Bay Area, this time wearing a Miami Heat jersey.
According to league sources, the Warriors are prioritizing help at the forward position over adding another big. That’s not a huge surprise.
The frontcourt, anchored by Kevon Looney and bolstered by Draymond Green when available, has held its own. But on the wing, Golden State has lacked the kind of two-way presence that once made them so dangerous - and that’s exactly the void Wiggins used to fill.
Now, let’s be clear: a reunion with Wiggins is still hypothetical. Any deal would likely require moving pieces like Moses Moody or Buddy Hield to make the salaries work.
But the idea isn’t just sentimental - it’s strategic. Wiggins knows the system, has chemistry with Steph Curry and Klay Thompson, and has proven he can be a high-level contributor in the postseason.
That’s a rare combination to find midseason.
What makes this scenario even more intriguing is Wiggins’ recent resurgence in Miami. He’s carved out a meaningful role with the Heat, and with Jimmy Butler sidelined due to a torn ACL, Wiggins’ value to Miami may be growing by the day.
Still, one could argue that Golden State’s need is even more urgent. The Warriors are fighting to stay in the playoff mix, and they know their championship window with this core isn’t open forever.
And then there’s the emotional element. When Wiggins returned to San Francisco last week, it wasn’t just another game.
Head coach Steve Kerr made a point of showing his appreciation for the former No. 1 pick, and several members of the Warriors organization spent time reconnecting with him. That mutual respect - and yes, mutual affection - hasn’t faded.
Golden State’s front office is expected to stay active leading up to the deadline, searching for a move that can elevate this roster and keep them in the playoff hunt. Whether that means bringing back Wiggins or going in a different direction remains to be seen.
But one thing is clear: the Warriors aren’t standing pat. They know what’s at stake, and they’re looking for a difference-maker - preferably one who can defend, score, and fit seamlessly into their system.
Sound familiar?