Warriors: For small-ball purposes, Rudy Gay could be ideal trade target

Over the last ten-plus years, forward Rudy Gay has been the definition of consistent, a trait the Golden State Warriors would cherish.

The Golden State Warriors will look to return to championship contention next season. After a mere 15 wins in 65 games during the 2019-2020 season, the team will have many avenues towards improving their roster.

The two most notable are the mid-level exception and the team’s $17.2 million trade exception. Both of those could bring in a player capable of filling a void for a team that will return their two superstar guards fully healthy next season.

To complement Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, the Warriors should look into adding Spurs’ forward Rudy Gay. Gay has been a staple of consistency for the Spurs over the last several years, spending the bulk of his career with Grizzlies and Kings.

Gay came into the league as a lottery pick for the Memphis Grizzlies, selected eight overall. Every year since, the former star has averaged double figures, eclipsing 20 points per game in three of his 14 seasons.

After a few above-average seasons with the Spurs in which the 33-year-old, 6-foot-8 forward proved his worth, Gay signed a contract that’ll expire at the end of next season, a perfect timetable for the Warriors.

He’ll be owed $14 million, enough to get covered under the trade exception. He’d have to be traded for, but hopefully with a free agency class that has a few young stars, the Spurs wouldn’t mind dumping his contract without much return.

A lengthy, consistent forward that can double down as a three-point threat as well is something Golden State will be in the market for. However, much of their interest in Gay will depend on what the Spurs are willing to part ways with him for.

His scoring and ability to perfectly complete the team’s small-ball lineup are a few reasons to target Gay and why he could be the ideal addition if head coach Steve Kerr wants to return to a small-ball heavy gameplan.