Warriors Eyeing LaMelo Ball in Potential Trade Deal
The Golden State Warriors are rumored to be eyeing a significant offseason move, with Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen initially at the center of trade discussions. However, with recent indications that Markkanen might not be available, the Warriors may shift their focus to another superstar.
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report has proposed a blockbuster trade scenario: the Warriors would trade Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Andrew Wiggins, and several future first-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets for point guard LaMelo Ball.
Full Trade Proposal Details
Favale’s proposal includes the following from Golden State in exchange for LaMelo Ball:
– **Players:** Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Andrew Wiggins
– **Draft Picks:** 2026 first-round pick, 2027 first-round swap, 2028 first-round pick, 2029 first-round swap, 2030 first-round pick (protected Nos. 21-30, converting to a 2031 second-rounder if not conveyed)
Favale suggests that while the Hornets don’t necessarily need to trade Ball, his injury history and the team’s rebuilding phase could make him a surprise trade candidate. Ball, who signed a five-year, $203 million extension after a surgery-requiring ankle injury, is known for his exceptional passing abilities.
Ball’s standout season was in 2021-22, averaging 20.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 6.7 rebounds over 75 games, earning an All-Star selection. However, injuries have limited him to 58 games over the past two seasons. For the Warriors to seriously consider acquiring him, Ball’s health would be crucial.
“LaMelo comes with plenty of risk, but he does a better job of straddling now and later for the Dubs than someone like Lauri Markkanen,” Favale wrote, noting Ball’s superior passing and shot-making. Despite his finishing needing improvement, Ball’s offensive skills are valuable.
### Warriors’ Stance on Brandin Podziemski
The Warriors are reportedly keen on retaining Brandin Podziemski. Shams Charania of The Athletic reported that the Warriors had been the most engaged team in pursuing Markkanen, with Utah asking for players like Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and Podziemski, along with draft picks—a demand Golden State has so far resisted.
Podziemski, the 19th overall pick in 2023, had an impressive rookie season, averaging 9.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.7 assists over 74 games. His promising performance makes him a valuable asset the Warriors are hesitant to part with.
### Future Moves for Golden State
The Warriors have already made notable changes, including waiving Chris Paul and parting ways with Klay Thompson after 13 years. While they aim for a significant move, it remains uncertain how much they are willing to sacrifice to achieve it.