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Golden State Warriors: 3 Paths to trading No. 7 NBA Draft pick

By Tony Pesta

WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 31: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards speaks to Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter during Game Four of the Eastern Conference first round series at Capital One Arena on May 31, 2021 in Washington, DC. 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 Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - MAY 31: Bradley Beal #3 of the Washington Wizards speaks to Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter during Game Four of the Eastern Conference first round series at Capital One Arena on May 31, 2021 in Washington, DC. 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 Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /
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Golden State Warriors (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors (Photo by Will Newton/Getty Images) /

Golden State Warriors can trade NBA Draft picks for a star

This is the obvious one. If the Golden State Warriors choose to flip their assets, it will likely be to maximize their return. The Dubs will be looking to obtain an All-Star.

By default, this path has to include trading Andrew Wiggins, and potentially others, as well. It is the only way to match salary with any of the stars Golden State might have in mind. This means the Dubs will have to be confident whoever they go after is worthwhile.

Consequently, I’ve already written multiple times about why the Dubs shouldn’t go for Ben Simmons. Regardless, I’ll acknowledge his defensive versatility and knack for creating 3-point shots (for others, not himself) is something the Warriors could utilize.

More fitting, Golden State can target a high-caliber offensive player like Bradley Beal. He nearly led the league in scoring at 31.3 points per game (Curry led all scorers with 32). Beal is the type of offensive threat that would make game planning against the Warriors a nightmare. His presence takes the pressure off of everyone around him.

Similarly, Zach LaVine provides the same attributes without sacrificing height. LaVine is 6’6″ and is ready to play winning basketball with a strong supporting cast around him.  A potent scorer and distributor, LaVine is a clear upgrade for the Dubs.

Finally, underrated names like Domantas Sabonis, Jimmy Butler and C.J. McCollum can all be targetted in the offseason. Each provides the Warriors with enough star power to overwhelm their opponents and push for a title by next season.

Targets: Ben Simmons, Bradley Beal, Zach LaVine, Jimmy Butler, Domantas Sabonis, C.J. McCollum 

dark. Next. GSW: 4 Trades involving NBA Draft picks

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