Warriors Could Pair Stephen Curry with $38.2 Million
The Golden State Warriors find themselves in an unexpected and troubling position. After starting the season 12-3 and sitting atop the Western Conference standings, they have tumbled down to ninth place, currently facing the prospect of the NBA Play-In Tournament for the second consecutive year. Unlike other teams battling injuries or internal turmoil, the Warriors have no such excuses. Instead, they face a harsh truth: Stephen Curry and Draymond Green are no longer enough to secure another championship.
A Desperate Need for Roster Upgrades
As the Warriors fight to regain their footing, they’ve been linked to several trade targets. Big names like Jimmy Butler and Brandon Ingram are realistic options, while speculative targets like LeBron James and Giannis Antetokounmpo remain unlikely. However, Golden State may find better value in bolstering its supporting cast rather than swinging for a superstar.
Proposed Trade to Reinforce Depth
One viable trade scenario involves the Portland Trail Blazers, who are focused on rebuilding. The Warriors could send Andrew Wiggins, Gary Payton II, Lindy Waters III, and a 2026 first-round pick to Portland in exchange for Anfernee Simons and Robert Williams III.
This move could significantly boost the Warriors’ lineup:
Anfernee Simons: Averaging 18 points per game and shooting 33.9% from three-point range, Simons offers versatility as a combo guard. His career 38.1% three-point shooting average suggests he’s more than capable of improving with better spacing and less defensive pressure playing alongside Curry.
Robert Williams III: A defensive powerhouse, Williams provides rim protection and rebounding support, easing the burden on Draymond Green in the paint.
Immediate Impact on Offense and Defense
On defense, Williams III can anchor the paint, allowing Green to focus more on perimeter defense and leadership. His rebounding and shot-blocking ability make him a key asset in playoff matchups against teams with dominant big men.
Offensively, Simons complements Curry with his ability to handle the ball, create his own shot, and facilitate plays, averaging five assists per game this season. His scoring consistency relieves some pressure on Curry, especially in late-game situations.
Long-Term Flexibility and Championship Window
Both Simons and Williams are under contract through the next season, giving the Warriors two playoff runs before making further decisions about their roster. This timeline aligns perfectly with the aging curves of Curry and Green, who may only have a few prime years left to chase another title.
A Win-Win for Both Teams
For Portland, the trade sheds long-term salary commitments, aligning with their rebuilding timeline. Wiggins provides a movable asset that could be flipped for more picks or younger talent, while Payton II and Waters III are on expiring deals, further clearing cap space.
What’s at Stake for Golden State?
With Klay Thompson struggling to regain his former dominance and Draymond Green showing signs of decline, the Warriors’ championship window is rapidly closing. Adding Simons and Williams III isn’t just about improving the roster; it’s about desperation to capitalize on the final years of Curry’s career.
Failing to make a significant move could leave Golden State stuck in mediocrity, relying too heavily on aging stars and hoping for miracles in the playoffs. Trading for Simons and Williams, however, might just provide the spark they need to make a desperate push for another NBA Finals appearance.
Final Thoughts
The Golden State Warriors can’t afford to wait any longer. With Stephen Curry’s prime ticking away, reinforcing their lineup with the $38.2 million duo of Anfernee Simons and Robert Williams III might be the bold move they need to keep their championship hopes alive. Whether this gamble pays off or not, the clock is ticking for the Warriors to prove they can still compete at the highest level.
