The Golden State Warriors need to get Stephen Curry healthy and some help. They have lost six of their last seven games and are struggling to get on track. Curry was the only player to score more than 20 points in a game through the first 11 before missing the last two. Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins are struggling to make shots. Chris Paul is still working his way into the system, but the Dubs need someone to step up fast.
The Warriors are expected to be aggressive before the trade deadline and are all-in on winning this year. Golden State has size and perimeter defense issues, especially if Wiggins and Klay do not get back on track. Brandin Podziemski had a breakout game, but he is only 6’4. The Dubs will likely go small in the postseason but must acquire another wing or forward to make that feasible.
Golden State has a first-round pick and multiple swaps available to trade if the correct deal comes along. They need to round out their roster, and these five deals do just that.
5. Warriors convince Nets to give up Royce O’Neale
O’Neale was on the trade block this summer as the Nets attempted to clear their glut of wings, but no deal materialized. Brooklyn wants a first-round draft pick in return and was unable to land one.
O’Neale won’t command the ball but has shown some improved playmaking since joining the Nets. He is comfortable spotting up and knocking down 3-pointers. The 30-year-old also gives the Dubs a needed wing defender behind their two struggling stars. This hypothetical deal could be enough to get it done.
O’Neale is only 6’4, which would make the Dubs' closing lineup extremely small. Andrew Wiggins would be the tallest player at 6’7 with Draymond Green playing the five. Golden State needs a bigger forward, but O’Neale can guard up in position and gives the Warriors some needed versatility off the bench.
The Dubs hope Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody step up and fill those needed roles, but the young duo is struggling to play more than 20 minutes per game. Royce O’Neale can handle starter’s minutes and is comfortable playing a role. The Golden State Warriors likely search for additional size, but this is an option to explore.