Time to Shake Up the Warriors? NBA Trade Deadline Scenarios

Scenario 4: Make Minor Adjustments, Trust Their Core

The Warriors could also see it through with their core pieces and make minor adjustments at the deadline. While they're three games under .500, they sit just one game back from a play-in spot. If Golden State can go on a run, they have a chance to clinch a lower seed and depend on a play-in game as the worst-case scenario. With Curry leading them, the odds are on their side if they get that chance.

Scenario 1: End the Chris Paul Experiment

Chris Paul was the big move in the offseason for the Warriors. The floor general sought a fresh opportunity, and the idea of Paul running the offense for Golden State and allowing Curry and Thompson to play off the ball more on offense seemed like a dangerous combination. However, the vision hasn't entirely panned out as they may have hoped. Paul is leading the team in assists per game with 7.2, but at times, the Warriors' offense looks stagnant. It's clear something needs to change for Steve Kerr's squad, and with CP3's $30 million salary looming, the Warriors may opt to cut their losses and pivot elsewhere.

Scenario 2: Move off Andrew Wiggins' contract

At one time, Andrew Wiggins looked like he rejuvenated his career with the Warriors during their championship run to beat the Celtics in 2022. Being a premier two-way player during that stretch for the Warriors ultimately landed the former No. 1 overall pick a four-year, $109 million extension. Fast forward to this season, where Wiggins is averaging a career-low 12.2 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists. Wiggins's time at Golden State could be limited by his lack of consistency on offense or defense.

Scenario 3: Separate the Splash Brothers

This may be the most unlikely scenario, but it is still worth considering. Klay Thompson is undeniably one of the best shooters this league has ever seen. At one time, Thompson was one of the best two-way players in the league. However, after multiple season-ending injuries and a rough shooting stretch this season, it may be time for the Warriors to at least test the waters on what Thompson may be worth on the market. Especially with his impending free agency this coming offseason with no extension.

Scenario 4: Make Minor Adjustments, Trust Their Core

The Warriors could also see it through with their core pieces and make minor adjustments at the deadline. While they're three games under .500, they sit just one game back from a play-in spot. If Golden State can go on a run, they have a chance to clinch a lower seed and depend on a play-in game as the worst-case scenario. With Curry leading them, the odds are on their side if they get that chance.