Golden State Warriors: Rating Indiana’s 3 trade assets

Golden State Warriors can consider Domantas Sabonis

Myles Turner is probably not worth the cost. Caris LeVert is redundant. Will the Indiana Pacers strike out? Or is Domantas Sabonis a legitimate option for Golden State?

Sabonis is a steady post presence

Let’s start with what Sabonis offers the Warriors.

Sabonis is as reliable as they come in the frontcourt. He is elite in the post, showing the ability to score in the paint, step out to the mid-range for a jump shot, or create plays for others by passing from the block. Sabonis dished 6.7 assists per game last season.

These skills bode well for someone joining the Dubs’ offense. Sabonis is a natural fit alongside the death lineup and can move well enough on defense to anchor them in the paint. Furthermore, Sabonis averages 12.0 rebounds per game.

High cost that could pay off

Trading for Sabonis comes with a cost. His $18 million dollar price tag means James Wiseman, Jonathan Kuminga and one more asset would be required to satisfy the Pacers.

But, is this cost worth it? Maybe.

Sabonis is only 25 years old and fresh off two All-Star campaigns. He’s posting 17.8 points on close to 60 percent shooting from the floor this year and would push the Warriors firmly into title contention.

Sacrificing their youth would hurt but Sabonis suits the Warriors’ current timeline just enough to warrant a trade. It is not at the top of the Warriors’ to-do list but targeting Sabonis is certainly worth a second thought.