3 trades that would prove the Golden State Warriors are playing chess not checkers

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 07: Kelly Oubre Jr. #3 of the Phoenix Suns reacts to a three point shot against the Houston Rockets during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on February 07, 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, ARIZONA - FEBRUARY 07: Kelly Oubre Jr. #3 of the Phoenix Suns reacts to a three point shot against the Houston Rockets during the second half of the NBA game at Talking Stick Resort Arena on February 07, 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images)
(Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) /

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.

Next. Top 30 Golden State Warriors players in franchise history. dark

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.