Stephen Curry of Golden State Warriors and Dillon Brooks of Memphis Grizzlies (Image via Getty. The Golden State Warriors are expected to make aggressive offseason moves to address multiple roster gaps. With needs in size, rebounding, shooting, and defense, one proposed trade suggests acquiring a familiar defensive anchor—though injury concerns loom large.
Proposed Trade: Warriors Land Robert Williams III
According to a recent trade scenario, the Warriors could send Moses Moody and Trayce Jackson-Davis to the Portland Trail Blazers in exchange for Robert Williams III and two second-round picks. Marc Delucchi of Golden State of Mind explored this possibility, noting that re-signing Jonathan Kuminga while adding Williams could bolster Golden State’s defense.
Why the Golden State Warriors Would Consider Williams
Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) and guard Stephen Curry (30) share a laugh during the second quarter against the Sacramento Kings at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit- D. Ross Cameron-Imagn Images.
Williams is no stranger to the Golden State Warriors, having faced them in the 2022 NBA Finals with the Boston Celtics. Despite playing through injury, he made a significant impact: – 7.5 points per game – 7.5 rebounds per game – 2.8 blocks per game His elite rim protection and athleticism as a lob threat would address Golden State’s defensive weaknesses. As Jeremy Kruger noted in the original report: “The defensive upside would be the reason the Warriors would do this trade. When healthy, Williams is an elite rim protector and lob threat.” (H/t: Sporting News)
The Major Concern: Durability
Williams’ biggest issue has been availability. Over seven NBA seasons: StatFigure Total Games Played 235 Avg. Games/Season 33.5 Games Last 2 Seasons (POR) 26His injury history makes him a high-risk acquisition, especially for a Golden State Warriors team that can’t afford to lose reliable rotation players.
Verdict: Too Risky for Golden State
While Williams’ defensive prowess is enticing, his inability to stay healthy makes this trade a questionable gamble. The Golden State Warriors need consistency, and swapping two young, healthy contributors for an often-injured big man doesn’t align with their immediate needs.Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors predicted to sign $18,001,011 Charlotte Hornets rookie to bolster squad around Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler and improve title oddsAs the offseason unfolds, Golden State will likely explore safer options to reinforce their roster without taking unnecessary risks.