The Golden State Warriors just lately fell to 18-17 after a deflating 129-99 dwelling loss to the Sacramento Kings on Sunday evening, forcing the crew’s entrance workplace to probably take into account taking drastic steps to enhance rapidly.
Regardless of doing all the pieces he might to maintain this iteration of the Warriors afloat, former No. 7 total choose within the 2021 NBA Draft Jonathan Kuminga is perhaps on his manner out.
The 22-year-old is on a speedy rise, as he’s at the moment averaging 16.8 factors and 5.0 rebounds with a discipline objective share of fifty.6%.
Because of its improved recreation mixed with strain being acquired from four-time NBA champion Stephen Curry to place the crew for a deep postseason run, Golden State basic supervisor Mike Dunleavy could view Kuminga as the final word commerce chip to make use of in a deal to amass a constant star.
Latest stories point out that Dunleavy might pull off a transfer for a longtime veteran by buying and selling Kuminga and others to the Brooklyn Nets in trade for his or her 28-year-old ahead, Cameron Johnson.
“Even when the Warriors do not buy these numbers in full, they might see the 28-year-old making an impression as a high-end three-and-D wing whereas Sharpe might energize the middle spot along with his exercise on the glass,” Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley wrote Tuesday.
“The Nets would really like “a number of first-round picks” for Johnson, in response to (Marc) Stein. That looks like an bold ask, however maybe not on this vendor’s market.
“Whereas this deal wouldn’t technically accomplish that objective, it might do higher by offering a evenly protected first and a probably worthwhile second, in addition to a potential constructing block in Kuminga.”
“The 6’8”, 210 pound swingman is an elite athlete even by NBA requirements, and he has proven flashes of being a go-to scorer and a disruptive, versatile defender.
The potential acquisition of Johnson would offer Curry and former Defensive Participant of the Yr Draymond Inexperienced with one other connecting piece with playoff expertise. Johnson shined as an vital piece for the Phoenix Suns throughout their run to the 2021 NBA Finals.
The 6-foot-8 combo ahead is at the moment exploding as Brooklyn’s main scoring choice, contributing 19.5 factors whereas connecting on 43.6 p.c of his three-point makes an attempt.
Touchdown the confirmed veteran might be thought-about a should, as Golden State must make up appreciable floor to regain its standing as a real contender.
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