Golden State Warriors: Top trade candidates before 2019 deadline

3. C DeMarcus Cousins

I know, it seems ridiculous, right? DeMarcus Cousins hasn’t even played this season, and yet we’re talking about him as a potential trade candidate. Well, whether or not you buy it, there’s at least a sliver of a chance Cousins is dealt before the Feb. 7 deadline.

That’s why he finds himself here at No. 3 on this list.

So why is Cousins even on this list? Well for starters, he’s a star-caliber player on a one-year deal. As we all know from seasons passed, he’s not imperative to the Warriors being contenders. If the Warriors have any interest in getting something out of the Cousins signing, a trade may be necessary.

Right now, though, it all depends on what happens when Cousins gets back on the floor. He’s already begun practicing with the Warriors’ G League affiliate in preparation for his return to the NBA. Once he gets back, Cousins could convince Golden State to send him packing if he shines.

Yes, the odds of Cousins being dealt aren’t great. Chances are he sticks with the Warriors through the 2018-19 campaign, likely winning a ring and then deciding where to take his career from there. With a re-signing nearly impossible, though, it wouldn’t come as a complete surprise if Golden State decided to acquire draft assets in return for Cousins if he shows well upon his return.