NBA Mock Trade Gives Warriors Chance to Save Money
NBA Mock Trade Gives Warriors Chance to Save Money
With the Golden State Warriors one game out of the 10th seed, the NBA Play-In Tournament is in play, giving them a chance to make the playoffs. However, even if they make the playoffs, future contracts could cause Warriors ownership to break up their once-dynastic roster further. There is a theoretical trade that gives the Warriors a chance to save money, and compete for a playoff spot.
The Toronto Raptors haven’t succeeded in trading 2023 NBA champion Bruce Brown. However, past reports indicate they expected to acquire significant compensation for the championship-level role player. In February 2024, a Sportsnet report claimed the Raptors received first-round draft pick offers for Brown, and at that point, they expected such a haul for the former Denver Nuggets guard.
Perhaps the Masai Ujiri should have accepted such alleged trades, as Brown’s value has since tanked.
Due to knee surgery recovery, Brown only has 12 games played in the 2024-25 season.
The 28-year-old guard’s value lies in his playoff potential, as his counting stats rarely impress. Brown averaged double-digit figures in only two seasons. At this stage in his career, his expiring $23 million contract is more of a catch than his on-court performance.
Regarding the Warriors’ relevance to a possible Brown trade, they have a few players who make sense for the Raptors, but one, in particular, would balance their rebuilding era with pushing them to the next step.
Andrew Wiggins, a proud son of Canada, offers the Raptors a chance to legitimize a roster with talented but unproven players.
While the Raptors allegedly expect Brown to receive first-round compensation, as Ujiri has a history of ruining trade haul potential.
The Warriors would likely refuse to make such a deal if it involved a first-round pick. Wiggins’ $84.6 million over the next three seasons could deter such a deal. Ultimately, he’s the best player the Raptors would receive for Brown.
Such a trade would benefit both teams. The Warriors could still compete for a playoff spot and save money, while the Raptors would receive a player to help them compete next season.
