Warriors intensify hunt for athletic forward and rim-protecting big
warriors-intensify-hunt-for-athletic-forward-and-rim-protecting-big
Multiple league sources told ClutchPoints that Golden State has been one of the NBA’s most active clubs in recent weeks, canvassing the trade market for reinforcements. According to the report, the Warriors are prioritizing an athletic forward and a frontcourt player who can rebound and guard the rim—areas where current centers Al Horford and Quinten Post come up short.
While Brooklyn’s Nic Claxton has frequently been linked to Golden State, the team is said to prefer acquiring a player earning no more than roughly $15 million per season. Conversations have already taken place with the Nets, Pelicans and Bulls, though the specific players involved were not disclosed.
Kuminga’s minutes monitored ahead of Jan. 15
Rival executives gathered at the G League Winter Showcase in Orlando wondered how much court time Jonathan Kuminga will receive before he becomes trade-eligible on Jan. 15, according to The Stein Line. Kuminga has recently fallen out of Steve Kerr’s rotation, and the Warriors may choose to limit his playing time to preserve his health ahead of the deadline. Scouts polled by the outlet said their evaluations of the fifth-year forward will not change based on a brief stretch of limited action.
Kings interest faces obstacles
A straight-up deal sending Kuminga to Sacramento appears unlikely unless a third team joins the talks, sources told ClutchPoints. Golden State is reportedly unimpressed with the assets the Kings are willing to offer. Sacramento guard Malik Monk, who is available, has drawn minimal leaguewide interest because he is owed nearly $42 million over the two seasons following this one.
Clippers eye McCollum; stars not expected to move
The Clippers have explored the idea of trading for Wizards guard CJ McCollum, league sources told ClutchPoints. Observers believe Washington would accept second-round picks for the 33-year-old, whose $30.7 million salary expires this summer. Matching money would not be an issue for Los Angeles; the club could start a package with John Collins’ $26.6 million expiring contract or combine multiple deals, including Bogdan Bogdanović’s $16.2 million number, to reach the needed figure.
Despite outside speculation, team sources maintain that Kawhi Leonard and James Harden are not expected to hit the trade block this season. Rival front offices, however, continue to believe Harden could become available.
Source: Hoops Rumors
