The Golden State Warriors ditched the two timelines plan by trading Jordan Poole for Chris Paul. The future Hall of Famer is not the cleanest fit with the Dubs and could be asked to play a new role. The move signaled Golden State is all-in on winning the title, but can they make the pieces fit?
Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins are back. That gives the Warriors a shot immediately. They hope Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody take a step forward as they work CP3 into the second unit. Golden State has a $200-plus million payroll again, and this could be the last run at the title before they get their spending in check.
If the Warriors are struggling, they will look to improve their roster at the trade deadline. Golden State cannot take back more money than they send out in a trade, but there will be moves to make, especially if they are willing to part with Chris Paul’s $30 million salary. Who could Golden State acquire?
Way-too-early 2024 trade deadline candidates Golden State Warriors should monitor
10. Alec Burks
The Warriors signed Burks as a free agent in 2019 but traded him to Philadelphia in February after their season went off the rails. Stephen Curry played just five games because of a hand injury. Klay Thompson missed the entire season, and Draymond only saw action in 43 contests as the Dubs won just 15 games.
It was a forgettable year, but Burks averaged 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.0 steal in 29.0 minutes per game over his 48 contests with the team.
The 6’6 wing is entering the final year of his contract and could be available if the Pistons are back in the lottery. Detroit hopes to jump into contention, but the Eastern Conference is loaded with talent. Burks would add firepower and floor spacing to any second unit, so expect him to draw plenty of interest if he hits the block.
The Golden State Warriors have multiple avenues in acquiring Alec Burks because of his $10.4 million salary, and he could be the perfect bench boost as they search for playoff depth. The 6’6 wing won’t be the biggest name available, but the Dubs may need an option if Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga have not taken a step forward.