Golden State Warriors Linked to MVP Center in NBA Trade Rumors
The Golden State Warriors, at 4-1, are one of the very best teams in the NBA to start the young season. Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler
Of course, injuries pile up, and Golden State would be smart to insulate its roster with talent who can step up in the event of ill health. The
Should the Warriors target a star, it would have to be to address their rebounding. Even after adding Al Horford this summer, Golden State ranks 23rd in rebounds per game. On top of that, they are 24th in blocks and allow the ninth-most points in the paint per game.
Adding an anchor down low could be a priority, but are they willing to swing for the fences?
GettySAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 02: Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors is guarded by Joel Embiid #21 of the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Chase Center on January 02, 2025 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
Golden State Warriors Linked to Joel Embiid
Joel Embiid, when healthy, is one of the very best players in the NBA. He is elite on both ends of the floor and, in theory, would solve any and all of the Warriors’ issues.
The only problem is that he hasn’t been healthy since early 2024.
Still, a foursome of Curry, Butler, Green, and Embiid would be one of the best groupings in the NBA.
“With the roster looking much different and Father Time playing a factor, they may need a center with a bigger presence,” wrote The Sporting News’ Tyler Rourke. “Joel Embiid happens to be easing back into his role with the
However, as Rourke notes, the deal wouldn’t be perfect for Golden State. Embiid will make $55.2 million this season, and even more in the years after that. Only by including
Of course, a healthy Embiid is better than both players combined, although losing Green would be a tough pill for the Dubs to swallow.
Why Warriors Should Pass on Any Deal
Golden State has played five games so far, looking mostly fantastic. As of now, the Warriors don’t really need anything, and Embiid is more of a headache
If Embiid gets healthy before the trade deadline, the Sixers will have very real title chances. Would they be willing to give it up for Green, Kuminga, and
It’s far too early in the season for teams to properly evaluate their strengths and weaknesses. Of course, with Horford’s limitations, the Warriors would be smart to target a center.
Embiid currently has the same limitations as Horford and makes $48 million more per season. Chasing Embiid wouldn’t be a smart move for the Warriors to make, especially not while they’re cruising.
Maybe we can come back to this in a few months.
Cubs Urged to Trade for, Pay Orioles All-Star After Kyle Tucker Leaves
The Chicago Cubs could have a busy offseason ahead. Kyle Tucker is hitting the open market, and if the Cubs lose him, they may need to make some moves to replace his production.
Tucker is expected to sign a lucrative contract that could reach north of $400 million in total value. If the Cubs are unwilling to go that high, the team could spend elsewhere. FanSided’s Chris Landers urged the Cubs to acquire and pay Baltimore Orioles All-Star catcher Adley Rutschman.
“The Cubs have the luxury of being just about locked in at every position on the diamond - except, that is, for catcher, where Carson Kelly started off strong before disappearing down the stretch this season,” wrote Landers. “It’s a spot crying out for an upgrade this offseason, and while the free-agent market is thin on impact names (outside a declining JT Realmuto), the trade market features one heck of a buy-low opportunity in Rutschman.”
Tucker had an .841 OPS and 22 home runs in what was considered a down year. The Cubs will have to find a way to replace that production, and the catcher position could use an upgrade. Carson Kelly posted a .761 OPS and had a solid season. However, Rutschman is a two-time All-Star and a Silver Slugger.
He had a down year this year and dealt with injuries. Additionally, the Orioles gave catcher Samuel Basallo a contract extension. After committing to an eight-year, $67 million extension with Basallo, Rutschman’s future may be in doubt. He did not have his best year, but he still has the potential to be an elite player. The Cubs could ink him to an extension while the price tag is low.
