Warriors: 3 realistic trades for the No. 2 overall draft pick
By Allen Settle
3. The Warriors could trade for LaMarcus Aldridge and assets
- Warriors get: LaMarcus Aldridge, Derrick White, No. 11 overall pick (2020), and a future first-round pick
- Spurs get: No. 2 overall pick
The Spurs have needed to initiate a rebuild since the moment Kawhi Leonard hurt his ankle and soured on San Antonio. While the team has managed to remain fairly competitive, it is clear that they are quite far from title contention.
This move would allow them to press the reset button. Gregg Popovich would have his choice of Wiseman or Ball to pair with a young core of Keldon Johnson, Lonnie Walker, and Dejounte Murray.
More from Golden Gate Sports
- Raiders: Rookie stock report following Week 3 performance
- 49ers sign new long snapper amidst a flurry of roster moves
- Oakland Athletics win Game 2 of Wild Card round with late-inning drama
- 49ers: George Kittle and Deebo Samuel cleared to return to practice
- 49ers expected to place DE Dee Ford on injured reserve
A move like this would allow Golden State to keep one eye on the present while also retaining valuable future assets. Aldridge is a star big man with the ability to get his shot at will.
However, he is also 35-years-old. The star center ended the 2019-2020 season with per-game averages of 18.9 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.1 blocks on 49 percent shooting.
Most notable, however, is the fact that he added a legitimate three-point shot to his offensive arsenal. Aldridge made a career-high (by far!) 1.2 threes a game on a super-efficient 39 percent clip.
He is still a good rebounder and defender. His turnaround post jumper is still automatic. And now he boasts three-point range. He would be a great fit in the Bay area for the next few seasons.
In this scenario, the Warriors also retain Wiggins, who could be the fifth starter or another trade chip in a separate move. Golden State would still have Wiggins, Eric Paschall, two Spurs first-round picks, and their own draft capital to add additional star power.
As another added bonus, the Warriors would acquire a phenomenal, young, backup guard in Derrick White. While he is not a household name, the fourth-year combo guard has thrived with coach Pop and as a member of Team USA basketball.
He averaged 11.3 points, 3.5 assists, and 3.3 rebounds per game on 46 percent shooting last season. White would be a valuable backup guard who could keep the team productive when Curry or Thompson needed a break.
Next. Warriors: Isaiah Thomas wants to play for Golden State. dark
Which of these trades do you think makes the most sense? What other star would you like to see the Warriors target?