3 Golden State Warriors trade targets that actually make sense

Nov 11, 2021; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) reacts towards their bench in the fourth quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 11, 2021; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (9) reacts towards their bench in the fourth quarter against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports /

Warriors’ trade target that makes sense: T.J. McConnell

While the Warriors could use a scoring threat like Dragic, T.J. McConnell, who currently is on the Pacers, a team near the bottom of the Eastern Conference, could be the quintessential addition, primarily for what he brings defensively.

McConnell is gritty, and he plays with hustle and passion. The 6-foot-1 McConnell has played in the NBA for 7 seasons, and he’s averaged over a steal per game in six of those seasons and in each season which he’s topped 19 minutes per game.

McConnell ranks 10th in deflections per 48 minutes among players this season with over 500 total minutes. That’s his strength, and it’s something even the Warriors’ top-ranked defense could use more of.

On top of his ability to defend at a high level, McConnell has shot over 50% from the field for four straight seasons. If there’s something that Golden State loves more than a defensive-minded player, it’s efficiency, and that’s something that McConnell brings.

McConnell is averaging 8.4 points and 4.8 assists per game this season.