5 rim protectors the Golden State Warriors should trade for

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Zaza Pachulia

Little do we know that it was the presence of Zaza Pachulia that kept this team together. While a joke, Pachulia was a reliable second unit member that helped anchor the Dubs on the defensive and offensive end.

He signed this season in Detroit to play for the veteran’s minimum. That transaction could be the same one to bring him back to the Bay. Averaging just 13 minutes per game. Pachulia, who still has quite a bit in the tank, is being significantly underused in Detroit.

The 16-year veteran went from shooting over 54% from the field to just over 41%. His consistent offense led to a plus-12 net rating. However, that net rating is also impacted by defense, which Pachulia’s veteran instincts help bolster as well.

He won’t give you volume minutes, but Pachulia would be a more consistent option than Kevon Looney. Even when Cousins returns, Pachulia would be useful. Averaging just 0.3 blocks per game, Pachulia’s defensive impact is felt much more on the court than the statsheet.

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