The Golden State Warriors have yet to make any significant signings while in contract negotiations with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga, and they may be a team to watch on the trade market this season.
While several players are reportedly expected to have verbal agreements with the club, including Al Horford, De’Anthony Melton and Gary Payton II, the team still has room for improvement. The center position proved to be an area of concern last season. While an aging Horford should help alleviate some of those concerns, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Warriors go after another big man.
Golden State made a huge swing by acquiring Jimmy Butler from the Miami Heat last offseason and could continue to search the trade block for ways to maximize Stephen Curry’s remaining years. The team was impressive with Butler alongside Curry following the All-Star break in 2024-25, and another blockbuster trade could push them closer to title contention.
MORE: NBA insider predicts Jonathan Kuminga’s next steps amid Warriors’ $75 million offer
Mock trade sends Walker Kessler to Warriors for Buddy Hield, draft picks
Looking at another Western Conference team, the Utah Jazz and Walker Kessler are reportedly not expected to reach an agreement on a rookie-scale contract extension, according to Tony Jones of The Athletic. With that, the 24-year-old center is set to enter restricted free agency next offseason and may become a trade candidate before the deadline in February.
Nathaniel Holloway of Athlon Sports recently floated a trade pitch that would send Kessler to the Warriors for Buddy Hield and draft capital, bolstering the Warriors’ frontcourt. While it may turn out to be a short-term rental, Kessler could improve Golden State’s title chances in the 2025-26 season.
The Auburn product has emerged as one of the league’s premier shot blockers over his three-year career, averaging 2.4 blocks per game during that span. He averaged 11.1 points, 12.2 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.7 assists across 30.0 minutes per game in 58 regular-season appearances with Utah last season, shooting 66.3 percent from the field.
On the other hand, Hield would be a welcome veteran presence for the Jazz and would likely provide a spark off the bench. If the Jazz feel they are unable to retain Kessler next offseason, trading him now for shooting and draft capital could help their rebuild.
