3 trades that would prove the Golden State Warriors are playing chess not checkers
Trading for Oubre Jr.
This would likely be the most borderline trade. The Suns may want to keep Kelly Oubre Jr., a forward on the bring of breaking out as a star in the NBA.
Oubre Jr., in his first full season with the Suns, had the best year of his career. He averaged 18.7 points per game, up from 15.2 the season before. He’s drastically improved every season since his rookie campaign in 2015.
Continuing to elevate, Oubre Jr. and his shooting would receive a warm welcome in the Bay Area. He’s young, and the Warriors may also get one of the premier targets at No. 10. The Suns could then slide up to No. 2 and get a LaMelo Ball-like playmaker.
While his fit with the team is unknown, the options at No. 2 would be plentiful. Oubre Jr. allows Golden State to have that dynamic small-ball lineup, with Wiggins sliding over to the four. For many teams, they’d match up perfectly.
That said, this is the best deal that would also provide a long-term solution for Golden State. Oubre Jr. would also fall under the team’s trade exception.
All three deals would be wins for Golden State and would just continue to show how terrific their front office is. However, they actually have to pull them off first.