San Francisco Warriors' Quest for a Game-Changer: Will They Trade Their 2021 First Round Picks?
For the San Francisco Warriors, the 2021 NBA Draft presents an intriguing opportunity. The team holds two first-round picks—7th overall from Minnesota and their own 14th—opening the possibility for significant trade discussions. The Warriors are clearly interested in leveraging these picks, driven by the need to bolster their roster with players who can make an immediate impact.
Current Roster and Future Projections
The Warriors, with key players like Curry, Green, and potentially Thompson entering their prime years, recognize the importance of acquiring young, impactful talent. However, the current draft pool is not overwhelmingly deep, making it challenging to find immediate help through the 7th overall pick. By the time the 14th pick rolls around, the available options may not align perfectly with the Warriors' strategic goals.
The Salary Cap Conundrum
A significant limitation facing the Warriors is their lack of salary cap space. To accommodate new signings, the team would need to shed existing contracts, likely through a sign-and-trade deal involving players like Fletcher Oubre and or gadgets like Andrew Wiggins and last year's first-round pick, James Wiseman. Such a trade would be a substantial reshuffling of their roster and future prospects.
Trade Possibilities and Considerations
Considering the trade landscape, the Portland Trail Blazers stand out as a potential partner. If the Warriors were to trade their first-round picks for a big star, the Trail Blazers might be willing to deal Damian Lillard for such a package. However, trading Lillard to the Warriors seems unlikely given the presence of Stephen Curry. The addition of another superstar, such as Lillard, might not be the best move for the Warriors.
Conclusion
While the 2021 NBA Draft offers valuable picks, the Warriors face a complex decision. To attract a game-changing player, they would need to part ways with top talents and their future prospects. For now, the ongoing negotiations will determine whether the Warriors pursue a trade that could redefine their team's future. As the NBA season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if a game-changing move is in the works.