Golden State Warriors on the Verge of a Blockbuster Trade: Joe Lacob's Bold Plans to Secure Another Championship Before Curry’s Window Closes
Golden State Warriors owner Joe Lacob isn’t ruling out a roster shake-up after securing forward Jonathan Kuminga on a new, trade-friendly contract — a move that gives the franchise flexibility to chase another title before
Warriors Eye Trade Market Options
“We’re always going to be looking at improving the team — always,” Lacob said on The TK Show with Tim Kawakami of The San Francisco Standard
Kuminga’s new two-year, $48.5 million contract includes a team option, making him one of Golden State’s most valuable trade chips. His $22.5 million salary can now anchor a potential blockbuster deal, and with four tradable first-round picks, the Warriors have the assets to pursue a star-level player if the opportunity arises.
Over the past two seasons, Golden State has explored deals for Lauri Markkanen, Paul George, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant — a clear sign of Lacob’s win-now mindset.
“I was on the phone yesterday, actually with somebody — not Mike [Dunleavy Jr.] but somebody in our basketball group — and I was going through literally team by team, every player in the league,” Lacob said. “This is when we start doing that on our side of things. Not that we think we need to make trades, but we could wind up being great this year and not need to do anything. On the other hand, we need to be prepared for the situation where that’s not the case.”
Giannis Antetokounmpo Remains ‘Dream Target’
While Lacob did not name specific players, multiple reports have indicated that Giannis Antetokounmpo is the Warriors’ “dream trade target.”
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently said
Golden State has long been one of the NBA’s most aggressive franchises in pursuit of elite talent, and Kuminga’s deal — along with Draymond Green’s and Andrew Wiggins’ movable contracts — gives them multiple pathways to pull off another blockbuster.
Aging Core Still Built to Compete
In the meantime, Lacob doubled down on his faith in the Warriors’ veteran core. The team added 39-year-old Al Horford this offseason to complement Curry,
“We’re always going to want to try to be as good as we can possibly be,” Lacob said. “We’re trying to win championships here. And at the very least, we want to be in competition to try to win championships. Maybe we’re not going to be the best team, but we want to at least have a shot.”
Maximizing Stephen Curry’s Championship Window
At 37, Curry remains one of the NBA’s top 10 players, ranked No. 7 by ESPN entering the 2025-26 season. Lacob acknowledged the Warriors are operating with a two-year championship window — the tail end of Curry’s prime. Their franchise star has often talked about wanting to spend his remaining years playing
“It was no surprise to me at all,” Lacob said of Curry’s mindset. “I talk to Steph all the time. He’s just like me, and just like Mike [Dunleavy]. We want to win, and we want to be playing for meaningful things. We don’t want to be sitting around worrying about which lottery pick we’re going to get. That’s just not something he wants to do at this point in his life — nor do I.”
Despite the challenges of aging stars and a competitive Western Conference, Lacob remains confident.
“It’s a lot of pressure to continue to try to be really good,” he said. “But that’s the way we’re built. All of us in this organization — it’s the way we think.”
Chicago Cubs face free agent chaos as key players consider dramatic exits!
Cubs at a Crossroads: The Uncertain Future of Free Agency
As the Chicago Cubs gear up for a pivotal offseason, questions loom large over the futures of several key players. With free agency on the horizon, the team finds itself at a crucial juncture, where decisions made could dramatically alter the landscape for the franchise.
Key Free Agents in Limbo
The Cubs are grappling with the possibility of significant departures. Notable names such as Cody Bellinger, Marcus Stroman, and David Ross are at the forefront of discussions surrounding their potential exits. Each player’s situation is steeped in uncertainty, leaving fans and analysts alike speculating on their next moves.
Cody Bellinger, who experienced a resurgence in his performance this season, has become a cornerstone of the Cubs’ lineup. His impressive stats make him a hot commodity on the free-agent market, and the likelihood of his return hinges on the Cubs’ willingness to extend a lucrative offer. Meanwhile, pitcher Marcus Stroman has been a stabilizing force on the mound, contributing significantly to the team’s pitching depth. However, with the right opportunities elsewhere, he might seek greener pastures.
The Impact of Management Decisions
The Cubs’ management faces a complex challenge. Balancing the desire to retain talent with the need to improve the roster is no easy feat. The front office’s strategy will be under scrutiny as they navigate negotiations, consider trades, and assess the overall direction of the team. The decisions made in the coming months will define the Cubs’ competitive window and could either solidify their status as contenders or lead to a rebuilding phase.
Fan Reactions and Expectations
As the offseason approaches, the Cubs’ fanbase is rife with anticipation and anxiety. Many supporters are torn between the desire to see their favorite players return and the recognition that change may be necessary for long-term success. The blend of hope and uncertainty creates a palpable tension as fans await news on contract negotiations and signings.
In a market where many teams are vying for top talent, the Cubs must act decisively. The stakes are high, and the choices made in the free agency period will resonate throughout the season to come. As the clock ticks down to when free agents can officially sign, every move will be closely watched, and the outcome will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of the Chicago Cubs.
