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The Golden State Warriors have no immediate trade plans, yet the front office would be wise to scour the league for a roster enhancement. Even with a healthy Jimmy Butler last season, the team fell short of title contention by one starting-caliber player. Now, with Butler facing an extended absence due to a torn ACL, the urgency to add a scorer who can alleviate the burden on Stephen Curry has intensified.
Four players in their prime have emerged as realistic trade targets for the Warriors. Two of them could potentially be acquired before the season tips off, while the other two might only become available once the campaign gets underway and team dynamics shift.
Key Trade Targets
Tyler Herro of the Miami Heat stands out as an ideal backcourt partner for Curry. Since trading Jordan Poole, the Warriors have lacked a guard who can score effectively alongside Curry and take over as the primary option when Curry rests. Herro fits that bill perfectly, and he could be attainable once his trade restriction lifts on September 6. The Milwaukee Bucks, who are entering a rebuild after dealing Giannis Antetokounmpo, might be willing to part with Herro, who is 26 and in the final year of his contract. Herro, earning $33 million this season, would likely command a lucrative extension, and his trade value is uncertain given his defensive limitations. A deal might involve a single unprotected first-round pick plus salary filler, though the Bucks may push for more.
Trey Murphy III of the New Orleans Pelicans is another prime target, though he would cost significantly more. Murphy, a 6'8" wing, is under contract for three more years at a bargain rate of $87 million. His combination of size, athleticism, and potential defensive upside makes him a valuable asset. While he hasn't yet become a dominant defender, if he develops on that end, he could form a championship-caliber duo with Curry. The Warriors might need to offer three first-round picks for Murphy, as previously suggested.
Jalen Suggs and Franz Wagner of the Orlando Magic are longer-shot targets. According to ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel, the Magic could undergo major roster changes if the 2026-27 season goes poorly. Suggs, a 25-year-old guard, and Wagner, a 24-year-old small forward, could become available if Orlando struggles in the improved Eastern Conference. Wagner, a two-way wing, would command a hefty price, likely three first-round picks or more, given his slightly superior play and expensive contract (five years, $224.2 million). Suggs, despite his subpar three-point shooting, is one of the league's best defensive guards and is on a more affordable deal (five years, $150.5 million). The Magic would likely seek long-term salary relief and draft capital, making the Warriors a viable trade partner with their expiring contracts, including Kristaps Porzingis, whose 2027-28 salary is only partially guaranteed.
The Warriors lack intriguing young assets beyond Yaxel Lendeborg, who they may be reluctant to trade. Consequently, any deal would likely require a substantial package of draft picks. But for a team aiming to maximize Curry's prime, that price may be necessary to climb the standings this season.