Warriors blockbuster three-team trade idea lands 6-foot-10 Mavericks center originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Golden State Warriors have two massive concerns so far this season.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementIn addition to possessing the same Jonathan Kuminga issue they’ve had for years (inconsistent performances/uninspiring three-point shooting), the Dubs also haven’t received the type of frontcourt production they expected from Quentin Post and Al Horford this season.
Luckily for Golden State, the Ringer’s Bill Simmons crafted a trade idea that would help the franchise address both issues, as the hypothetical three-team deal would swap Kuminga for a talented 6-foot-10 Dallas Mavericks center.
“They (Mavericks) finally at least realized that Cooper Flagg, how to try to grow his career instead of ruin it,” Simmons said Tuesday. “But what if it was (Jonathan) Kuminga to Chicago, Coby White to Dallas, and then (Daniel) Gafford and an expiring to Golden State. Does anyone have to throw a pick into that trade?”
While many would likely prefer the Warriors to acquire Anthony Davis from the Mavericks in a potential in-season trade, Gafford is a respectable backup option.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThe Arkansas product built a solid rapport with Luka Doncic in Dallas before the Mavericks sent the 26-year-old packing nine months ago.
From catching awe-inspiring lobs from Doncic in pick-and-roll situations to finishing strong upon receiving drop-off/dump-down passes from the 6-foot-6 magician, Gafford ensured he was highly productive alongside Doncic.
Even with Doncic no longer part of the Mavericks’ organization, Gafford continues to be an impactful frontcourt asset in Dallas, averaging 9.8 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game with the franchise this season.
With the clock ticking for Kuminga to turn things around in the Bay and the Warriors having one of the worst frontcourt units in the NBA, a trade could soon become imminent.
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