Why Eric Paschall trade made sense for Golden State Warriors

Although it may be a hectic time as teams navigate through the free agency period, the Golden State Warriors made another move in trading 24-year-old Eric Paschall to the Utah Jazz.

The Golden State Warriors have elected to trade Eric Paschall in a move that was the most logical for both of the parties involved.

The Warriors obviously didn’t get anything of note back in the deal, but it wasn’t about that for them. It was ultimately about freeing up another roster spot to hopefully make another move in free agency within the next few days.

Analyzing the Warriors roster and the thirteen players with guaranteed contracts for next season, Paschall was a clear choice if Bob Myers and the front office wanted to free up another spot. That is despite a productive two seasons for Paschall in the Bay Area after being taken with the 41st pick in the 2019 draft.

He averaged 14 points and 4.6 rebounds in his rookie season, earning himself All-NBA Rookie First Team honors in an otherwise forgetful Warriors season.

He regressed slightly last season, however, that had plenty to do with his role and how coach Steve Kerr used him off the bench. Despite his 6 ft 6 frame, he was often used as a small-ball center in an attempt to utilize his isolation scoring ability. He also struggled with injury, appearing in just 40 games across the regular season.

Looking at the Warriors additions, it was difficult to envisage how Paschall would carve out a role in a team hoping to contend for a championship. Behind Draymond Green at power forward, the Warriors just drafted Jonathan Kuminga, would expect newly acquired free agent Otto Porter Jr to play minutes there, and perhaps some Andrew Wiggins small ball at the four as well. At Center, the Warriors are well versed with James Wiseman and Kevon Looney, along with Green’s small ball time there. That’s not to mention Nemanja Bjelica who will provide more depth at those positions as a stretch big.

Paschall could very well become a solid rotation player and have a long NBA career, but that doesn’t mean the Warriors should regret their decision. Ultimately, it was the right move for both team and player.

The Warriors now have 12 guaranteed contracts for next season. With Damion Lee likely to have his contract guaranteed, look for the Warriors to perhaps make two more moves in the coming days.