11. Rudy Gay – Fact
Rudy Gay is nowhere near the most exciting prospect that the Golden State Warriors can pursue – but he is one of the most realistic.
The San Antonio Spurs have little to no reason to hold on to Gay any longer. The veteran forward is a quality piece to have for a team in the playoff hunt – but this isn’t who the Spurs are anymore. After missing the postseason for the first time since I was born, the Spurs should be transitioning into a full rebuild.
This opens the door for a firesale of unneeded pieces like Gay, DeMar DeRozan, LaMarcus Aldridge and Patty Mills. Of the bunch, Gay is the easiest for the Warriors to target as his salary fits under their $17 million dollar trade exception.
There are a few different options for the Dubs here. They could potentially swap first round picks with the Spurs (Dropping from No. 2 to 11th overall) and receive Gay in the process. Or, the Dubs can combine a few second round picks with Kevon Looney and Jordan Poole to obtain the veteran without giving up their upcoming pick. Either way, Gay is a legitimate trade candidate for the Warriors this offseason.