
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors might sign $46.5 million Dallas Mavericks star to form deadly duo with Stephen Curry and improve Championship odds
The
Golden State Warriors
have been searching for the right move to solidify their roster—and Dallas' draft-night fortune may have just handed them the perfect opportunity. After
the Mavericks
landed Duke phenom Cooper Flagg with the No.
1 overall pick, their frontcourt is suddenly overflowing with talent, potentially making key contributor PJ Washington expendable. According to Blue Man Hoop's Tyler Watts, the Warriors, who desperately need size, defensive versatility, and reliable secondary scoring, this could be the ideal trade target to push them back into title contention.
Following Flagg, Anthony Davis, Dereck Lively II, and Daniel Gafford, Washington, who was instrumental in Dallas' 2024 NBA Finals run, is currently stuck in a deadlock.
Golden State should jump at the chance to sign the 26-year-old forward, as the Mavericks are probably trying to assemble a team with a lot of quality.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You
Reportingly
Undo
Why P.J. Washington Makes Sense for the
Golden State Warriors
Watts laid out the reasoning behind this potential move: "The
Golden State Warriors
should trade for PJ Washington after the Cooper Flagg selection created a frontcourt logjam for the Mavericks. Dallas has Dereck Lively II locked in at the five with Anthony Davis at the four. That means playing Flagg at the three. The Mavs have Washington and Daniel Gafford behind them. All five players want significant minutes, and Dallas only has so many available in the frontcourt." (H/t: Sporting News)
Washington's versatility fits Golden State's needs perfectly. Here's why:
Golden State Warriors at Chicago Bulls (Image via Imagn)
- Defensive Flexibility: At 6'7', he can guard multiple positions and even operate as a small-ball center.
- Offensive Reliability: He shoots efficiently (45.3% FG, 38.1% 3PT) and thrives in catch-and-shoot situations.
- Playoff Experience: His contributions were key in Dallas' deep playoff run last season.
How Washington Addresses Golden State's Weaknesses
The Golden State Warriors struggled with two major issues last season:
1. Lack of Size: Their frontcourt was often outmatched against bigger teams.
2. Scoring Beyond Curry: Secondary scoring options were inconsistent.
While the
Jimmy Butler
trade improved their roster, adding Washington could be the final piece to elevate them back into title contention.
P.J. Washington's 2024-25 Season Stats
Stat Category
Average Per Game
Points
14.7
Rebounds
7.8
Blocks
1.1
FG%
45.3%
3PT%
38.1%
Why Dallas Might Move On from PJ Washington
PJ Washington had a difficult season finale, going scoreless for 27 minutes in Dallas' Play-In loss to Memphis, while having a solid season overall. However, he is a strong trade asset due to his overall output (career-second-best stats).
Dallas may put more emphasis on assembling talent than holding Washington as a backup now that Flagg is a part of an already loaded frontcourt that includes Lively, Davis, and Gafford.
What PJ Washington Brings to the Table
- Efficient Offense: Excels in spot-up threes, closeout drives, and rim finishes.
- Defensive Toughness: Switchable defender who can handle one-on-one matchups.
- Championship Pedigree: Played a major role in a Finals-bound team.
Also read:
NBA Trade Rumors: Could Milwaukee Bucks Giannis Antetokounmpo Team Up With $215,159,700 Atlanta Hawks?
To compete at the highest level, the Warriors require one more dependable component. Dallas' roster need may have made PJ Washington accessible, making him the ideal addition. Golden State may have enough to go far in the playoffs again if they can complete this transaction.
Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Time of India
4 hours ago
- Time of India
Stephen Curry sparks debate, claims NBA players are 'underpaid'
Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry has sparked conversation by claiming that NBA players are 'underpaid' despite the league's soaring revenues. In a recent interview, Curry emphasized that while players earn millions, their compensation doesn't fully reflect the value they bring to the league and global entertainment industry. Despite NBA players averaging nearly $12 million in salary during the 2024-25 season - far outpacing the NFL's $3 million average - Curry believes players are still underpaid. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Artificial Intelligence Data Science others Healthcare Technology healthcare Public Policy Management MBA Others Operations Management Degree PGDM Product Management Cybersecurity Finance Design Thinking Data Analytics MCA Project Management Data Science Leadership Digital Marketing CXO Skills you'll gain: Duration: 7 Months S P Jain Institute of Management and Research CERT-SPJIMR Exec Cert Prog in AI for Biz India Starts on undefined Get Details Curry, who is set to earn close to $60 million next season, recently spoke his heart out on '360 with Speedy' podcast with Speedy Morman . When asked if he and his fellow NBA players are underpaid, the two-time MVP thoughtfully responded yes - but took time to explain his perspective. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Curry emphasized that, while the salaries seem massive, they don't always reflect the true value players bring to the league's global success. Live Events "I think, because of the way the CBA is structured right now, we can't participate in equity. And that's a big deal because it is a partnership with ownership. It's a partnership with the league, and we're on the short term of that revenue," Curry opined. "Those (contract) numbers sound crazy, but what the league is doing, from whatever era you want to compare it to, to now, is probably 10x that. The idea that we can't participate in equity while we're playing is part of why I would say yes, we are underpaid, because we want to be able to participate in that rise. "Hopefully, sooner than later, those rules change a little bit so that players can participate more in the upside of team equity, the league, valuations, and all that type of stuff. Just because I think we deserve it." Curry believes NBA players should have the opportunity to earn ownership stakes in their teams while still active - something currently barred by the league's collective bargaining agreement. He argues that players, who are directly responsible for generating fan interest and revenue, deserve a share in the skyrocketing value of franchises. Team valuations have exploded over the years. In 2000, the Knicks topped Forbes' list at $395 million. By 2025, the Lakers sold at a staggering $10 billion valuation. The Warriors, thanks largely to Curry's influence, have soared from $168 million in 2000 to $8.8 billion in 2024. With the current CBA set through 2029-30 - but with a potential opt-out in 2028-29 - equity opportunities and luxury tax penalties will likely be key negotiation points. Players are expected to push hard for greater long-term financial involvement.


Time of India
8 hours ago
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Could Target $27 Million Chicago Bulls Star to Bolster Frontcourt Depth and Floor Spacing
Stephen Curry of Golden State Warriors and Dillon Brooks of Memphis Grizzlies (Image via Getty. As Jonathan Kuminga 's restricted free agency lingers on, the Golden State Warriors are exploring potential sign-and-trade options—and the Chicago Bulls have emerged as a possible trade partner. According to ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel, the Warriors could look to acquire 6-foot-10 forward Jalen Smith, a former lottery pick with shooting upside. 'Kuminga wants a new situation,' wrote Siegel. 'The 22-year-old has signaled that the role he wants moving forward isn't obtainable with the Golden State Warriors.' Despite talks with teams like the Sacramento Kings and Phoenix Suns falling flat, the Golden State Warriors remain active in trade discussions. The Bulls' interest in Kuminga isn't guaranteed, especially as they deal with Josh Giddey's situation, but a potential deal involving Jalen Smith and guard Ayo Dosunmu could benefit both sides. Smith, drafted 10th overall by the Suns in 2020, has developed into a serviceable floor-spacing big. With the Bulls in 2024-25, he averaged 8.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks in just 15 minutes per game. Jalen Smith (2024-25 with Bulls) Jalen Smith (Image via USA TODAY Sports) Stat Category Value Games Played 64 Points Per Game 8.2 Rebounds Per Game 5.6 Blocks Per Game 0.7 3PT % 32.4% While his long-range accuracy dipped, Smith showed high-level shooting the year before. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 20 Pieces of Clothing you Can be Too Old for Learn More Undo Jalen Smith (2023-24 with Pacers) Stat Category Value Games Played 61 3PT % 42.4% 3PA Per Game 2.4 If he can return to that form, Smith could be an ideal fit alongside Stephen Curry in pick-and-pop actions. His size and floor spacing address clear needs for Golden State. What a potential trade could look like Proposed Deal To Golden State Warriors: • Jalen Smith • Ayo Dosunmu To Bulls: • Jonathan Kuminga (sign-and-trade) Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Urged to Acquire $48 Million Boston Celtics Star to Bolster Frontcourt Depth; Maxi Kleber Key Trade Asset? With Curry still in win-now mode, Golden State may prefer pieces that support its current timeline. Smith's skill set could be a low-risk, high-reward addition. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!


Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
NBA Trade Rumors: Los Angeles Lakers Urged to Acquire $48 Million Boston Celtics Star to Bolster Frontcourt Depth; Maxi Kleber Key Trade Asset?
Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers (Image via Getty) The Los Angeles Lakers are actively reshaping their roster around stars Luka Doncic and LeBron James , and with free agency well underway, their recent moves suggest a clear push toward defense, depth, and chemistry. However, one NBA analyst believes there's still one more move the Lakers should make - part ways with Maxi Kleber and bring in Marcus Smart's former Boston Celtics teammate, Robert Williams III. Marcus Smart Joins Los Angeles Lakers - Thanks in Part to Luka Earlier this week, the Los Angeles Lakers made headlines by signing defensive specialist Marcus Smart. The deal gives Los Angeles a major upgrade in perimeter defense. According to The Athletic's Dan Woike, Luka Doncic reportedly played a role in facilitating Smart's addition to the team, showing his growing influence within the franchise's front office decisions. Smart, known for his gritty play and leadership, immediately becomes a vocal anchor in the Lakers' backcourt. But for some, the story shouldn't end there. Robert Williams III: The Ideal Reunion Target Analyst Caleb Hightower suggests that the Los Angeles Lakers should look to reunite Smart with Robert Williams III, his former teammate in Boston. 'Before the offseason ends, though, the Lakers should cut ties with a 6-foot-10 forward and reunite Smart with his 27-year-old former Boston Celtics teammate,' writes Hightower. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Struggling With Belly Fat? Try This at Home Home Fitness Hack Shop Now Undo Williams, now with the Portland Trail Blazers, spent five productive seasons with Smart in Boston. The duo developed a strong on-court connection, especially during Boston's 2021–22 NBA Finals run. Robert Williams III: Career-Best Season (2021–22) Robert Williams (Image via Getty) Stat Category Value Points Per Game 10.0 Rebounds Per Game 9.7 Blocks Per Game 2.2 Field Goal % 73.6% Williams thrived during that campaign, bringing energy, elite shot-blocking, and rim-running ability — attributes the current Lakers bench lacks at the center position. Why the Los Angeles Lakers Should Consider Trading Maxi Kleber Maxi Kleber, while a solid rotational big man, has struggled with consistency and health in recent seasons. By moving Kleber, along with guard Gabe Vincent and a future second-round pick, the Los Angeles Lakers could potentially land Williams and enhance their interior presence behind Deandre Ayton. Proposed Trade Package To Portland To Los Angeles Maxi Kleber Robert Williams III Gabe Vincent Future 2nd-round pick This move would free up cap flexibility and bring in a center who already shares chemistry with Smart. Moreover, Williams' relentless motor and defensive instincts make him an ideal fit alongside elite playmakers like Doncic and James. Concerns Around Williams' Injury History Despite his potential, Robert Williams comes with notable injury concerns. Since leaving Boston after the 2022–23 season, the 27-year-old has only managed to appear in 26 regular-season games across two years in Portland. His health has become a recurring issue, raising valid questions about his long-term durability. Still, for a team seeking championship contention, calculated risks are often part of the process. Robert Williams: Risk vs. Reward Pros • Elite rim protector • Strong chemistry with Marcus Smart • High field goal percentage and energy • Proven playoff experience Cons • History of injuries • Limited availability • Could require load management Reuniting Marcus Smart and Robert Williams III could give the Los Angeles Lakers a defensive identity that hasn't been seen in years. While Williams isn't a guaranteed game-changer due to his health, his upside and history with Smart make him a compelling target. The Lakers have already started - adding Williams might be the next smart step in completing the puzzle. Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Golden State Warriors Target $35.25 Million Toronto Raptors Big Man as Al Horford Backup Plan As Caleb Hightower points out, it's a reunion that 'would not pair Smart with a familiar face, but also give the Los Angeles Lakers a more proven backup center option.' That's a trade worth exploring before the offseason window closes. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!