Golden State Warriors: 3 potential trade packages for Wes Matthews

DALLAS, TEXAS - JANUARY 16: Wesley Matthews #23 of the Dallas Mavericks reacts after being called for a foul against the San Antonio Spurs at American Airlines Center on January 16, 2019 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

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Again, I have not lost my mind.

This trade is about pre-emptively addressing contract issues with Klay Thompson while preparing for the future.

Here’s the breakdown: Klay has one year left on his contract and while he’s said he wants to remain with the Warriors, there are rumblings that he will only do so for the entire max he can negotiate for.

The Warriors would be completely justified in offering a full max to Klay and rightfully deserves it. Lacob said that no one would outspend the Warriors when it comes to keeping Klay. So the team is all well and good from that standpoint.

Kawakami: Joe Lacob on the Warriors' future: 'We'll be aggressive; nobody's going to outspend us' @timkawakami https://t.co/dz3Jx2STe9
— The Athletic Bay Area (@TheAthleticSF) February 3, 2019

However, if the Warriors do want to maximize their spending options, saving any amount would be monumental in their cap-restricted circumstance.

Trading Klay would save them from trying to negotiate a max deal. The team gets a veteran who can slot right into starting lineup and can recoup a plethora of picks from the Knicks.

Next. Warriors: 3 blockbuster trades the Dubs should consider. dark

From New York’s perspective, they get a star in his prime who they can ink to a long-term deal and use as the anchor of their pitches to free agents.

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