Two stars linked to Golden State not named Giannis or Kawhi

2 min read
Two stars linked to Golden State not named Giannis or Kawhi

Two stars linked to Golden State not named Giannis or Kawhi

Because Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard may be difficult to acquire, here are two backup options for the Warriors to pursue via trade.

Two stars linked to Golden State not named Giannis or Kawhi

Because Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard may be difficult to acquire, here are two backup options for the Warriors to pursue via trade.

The Golden State Warriors have made their intentions clear: after locking down head coach Steve Kerr with a two-year extension, the front office is fully committed to building around Stephen Curry for another championship push. But while the rumor mill has been buzzing with superstar names like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard, landing either of those elite talents is easier said than done. So, who else could step up and fill the void? Here are two under-the-radar stars linked to Golden State that might just be the perfect fit.

First up is Trey Murphy III of the New Orleans Pelicans. Don't let the lack of an All-Star nod fool you—this guy is a rising force in the Western Conference. Over the past two seasons, Murphy III has averaged over 21 points per game, and he's a sniper from deep, knocking down 38.2% of his three-pointers on nearly seven attempts per game. What's even more impressive is his steady growth: in each of his first five seasons, his points, rebounds, and assists have climbed higher year after year. For a Warriors team that thrives on spacing and shooting, Murphy III could be a seamless fit alongside Curry.

Another intriguing option is Michael Porter Jr., now with the Brooklyn Nets. While he hasn't made an All-Star team either, Porter Jr. came close last season, posting a career-high 24.2 points, 7.1 rebounds, and three assists per game. As a career 39.8% three-point shooter and a 2023 NBA Champion, he brings both scoring punch and winning experience. The best part? The Nets are in a rebuilding phase, and Porter Jr. is on the final year of his contract, making him a realistic trade target. In Steve Kerr's system, playing off Curry's gravity, Porter Jr. could explode even further.

While Giannis and Kawhi remain the dream targets, these two players offer a more attainable path to keeping the Warriors in title contention. Sometimes, the best moves are the ones that fly under the radar.

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