Grade the Trade: CP3 dealt again in chaotic Warriors pitch

Do the Warriors make this trade?

It’s a more complicated question from the side of the Golden State Warriors. On the one hand, head coach Steve Kerr is yet to display a lot of trust in Jonathan Kuminga, and Chris Paul and Brandin Podziemski have yet to play a single minute for the Warriors. As has been the case with many players over the years, they may not be a great fit; that won’t be known until a few months into the season.

On the other hand, it’s a lot to give up for a poor-fitting shaky shooter on an expiring deal. That’s an uncharitable way to describe Pascal Siakam, but it’s also true. The Warriors would have to start either Siakam or Draymond Green at center full-time, or else bring one of them off the bench. Siakam shot 32.4 percent from deep last season; his presence would only further constrict the Warriors’ spacing.

Jonathan Kuminga may never realize his potential, but there is also a very real possibility he breaks out this year as a high-end defender and athletic finisher. Moving him now is probably near the bottom end of his value.

If Siakam agreed to an extension as part of this move it becomes more reasonable. He is an excellent rebounder, a force in transition and a gifted passer. His defense waxes and wanes depending on his offensive load, but he has a solid track record in that area. He could be a worthy second option for this offense.

The fit concerns are stark, and the Warriors have already hemorrhaged a lot of their young talent over the past 6 months. Adding another non-shooter is a really difficult proposition, but Siakam is also a proven playoff performer – and round and round we go. This deal is intriguing, but it’s probably not the best way to cash in their chips. It’s certainly worth discussing, though.

Grade: B-