The Golden State Warriors dynasty could be over, following the 21-point loss against the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 6 of the second round of the playoffs. Instead of showing championship-caliber intangibles and forcing a Game 7, the Warriors were devastated and unable to take their chances on their homecourt in the final game. Nobody expected Golden State to go out as badly as they did, especially with Klay Thompson going 3-19 in Game 6 and Jordan Poole struggling throughout the playoffs (10.6 PPG on 26.7% 3-PT FG). Other than Stephen Curry (30.3 PPG on 37.1% 3-PT FG) and Kevon Looney (6.3 PPG, 12.7 RPG), no other Warriors player played above their usual level.
Looking ahead to next season, it is clear that the time for the four-time championship core is over. There must be significant changes in the roster this summer and a massive blow-up including Draymond Green, Jordan Poole, Jonathan Kuminga, Gary Payton II, Moses Moody, three first-round picks, and even Kevon Looney could occur. Specifically, the Warriors can acquire two elite big men to completely change their roster and give the All-Star backcourt of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson some new players to work with. If the case presents itself where arguably the best two-way player in the world is unavailable, there could be some other changes happening in Golden State.
Steve Kerr is one of the greatest coaches in the NBA and he has a chance to lead this team to another title in the near future. With Curry at age 35 and Klay at 33, the time for the Warriors to win is right now and there could be some packages out there that bring on board Karl-Anthony Towns and Pascal Siakam. That’s right, the Golden State Warriors can have a dominant Big Five to challenge the top teams next year and win the NBA championship.
A New Starting Power Forward
Trade Details
- Golden State Warriors Receive: Pascal Siakam
- Toronto Raptors Receive: Jordan Poole, Kevon Looney, Moses Moody
The Golden State Warriors are a team that was once considered a dynasty, but they have struggled significantly this season without enough size and versatility. One player who could potentially help them return to their former glory is Pascal Siakam of the Toronto Raptors. Siakam is a versatile forward who can play multiple positions and is known for his athleticism and defensive skills. He was a key part of the Raptors' championship run in 2019 and has continued to improve each season since then. He averaged 24.2 PPG, 7.8 RPG, and 5.8 APG this season, and has shown that he is capable of being a primary or secondary scoring option for a team. The Warriors are a team in need of some offensive firepower, especially since Stephen Curry is 35 years old and has to handle a lot of pressure.
Siakam could provide offense, as he is a player who can create his own shot and is comfortable taking on a larger role on offense. He could complement the talents of Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson, who are both excellent team players, and help the team maintain a high level of ball movement and cuts to the basket. In addition to his offensive skills, Siakam is also a strong defender. He has quick hands and is adept at blocking shots and forcing turnovers. This could be particularly valuable for the Warriors, who have struggled on the defensive end of the floor this year (21st in OPPG and 17th in defensive rating). Adding a new power forward who is a better scorer and more athletic than Draymond Green would be a welcomed sight for the Warriors fan base that struggled to love the team this year.
Of course, the Warriors would have to give up something in return for Siakam, as he is a valuable player with All-Star intangibles. Golden State must lose Jordan Poole who is only 23 years old and will have a bounce-back year without the weight of contract pressure, playing for Golden State, or even a punch over him. The Warriors must also let go of dominant rebounder Kevon Looney whose value will not be higher right now. A 20-year-old Moses Moody is another key player that can be the new piece to compete alongside Scottie Barnes in Toronto.
lay at 33, the time for the Warriors to win is right now and there could be some packages out there that bring on board Karl-Anthony Towns and Pascal Siakam. That’s right, the Golden State Warriors can have a dominant Big Five to challenge the top teams next year and win the NBA championship.