The Golden State Warriors dynasty could be falling and Klay Thompson is one of the former stars who seems to be struggling. Averaging 16.7 points per game on 37.7% from three this season, Thompson looks to be past his best and the Warriors might want to find a trade destination for a player whose contract expires this season.

Unfortunately, there might not be massive offers heading Golden State’s way considering he will be a free agent next season but there will be a few takers. The Warriors hold a 16-17 record and seem to be a play-in team, so making a move that sends Thompson away from the team could give them a boost to return to the playoffs and make a run. There are five trade offers the Warriors can get for Klay Thompson before the February trade deadline.

The first deal on the table involves the 76ers and a straight swap with Tobias Harris. While the Warriors have had great success with a sharpshooter alongside Stephen Curry, Harris could bring a different skill set.

Trade Details

Golden State Warriors Receive: Tobias Harris

Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Klay Thompson

In evaluating the proposed straight swap between the Warriors and the 76ers involving Klay Thompson and Tobias Harris, it’s evident that both teams would undergo some changes in their lineups. While Harris may not replicate Thompson’s pure shooting ability, his size (6’8″, 226 lbs), defensive consistency, and rebounding could bring a valuable and different dimension to the Warriors.

Harris, averaging 17.3 points per game and 6.2 rebounds per game on 35.4% from three as the third option with the 76ers, has the potential to post similar, if not improved, numbers with the Warriors. His versatility could complement Stephen Curry’s game and add a layer of defensive stability to the team. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that the 76ers gain a sharpshooter in Thompson, which could enhance their offensive firepower around Joel Embiid and potentially make them winners in this deal.

The Warriors, on the other hand, might not find a better option considering Thompson’s recent injury history, age, and free agency status. This trade involves a certain level of risk for both teams, but for the Warriors, it provides an opportunity to make a straight swap for another expiring deal and seeing how it plays out.

Getting Slightly Younger With CJ McCollum

The second trade offer sees the Warriors adding a valuable first-round pick to move on from Thompson and gain shot-creator CJ McCollum to add to the backcourt. At 32 years old, McCollum has a few years left in the tank.

Trade Details

Golden State Warriors Receive: CJ McCollum

New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Klay Thompson, 2027 First-Round Pick

In considering the second trade offer, the Warriors could find a compelling solution to the uncertainties surrounding Klay Thompson’s future by acquiring CJ McCollum and a valuable 2027 first-round pick. At nearly 34 years old, Thompson’s recent performances and impending free agency present risks for the Warriors, who could lose Klay for nothing.

CJ McCollum, at 32, brings a blend of scoring prowess (19.9 points per game on 43.9% from three) and shot creation that could inject a new dynamic into the Warriors’ backcourt alongside Stephen Curry. McCollum’s ability to create his shot adds an element that has been missing, and his 5.0 assists per game showcase his playmaking capabilities.

By including a first-round pick, the Warriors not only mitigate the loss of Thompson but also position themselves to secure young talent in the upcoming drafts. This trade allows the Warriors to get slightly younger, maintain their shooting prowess, and significantly enhance their shot-creation and playmaking abilities, creating a more versatile and dynamic roster in the process.

Acquiring A Mix Of Versatility, Defense, And Shooting

Since the Trail Blazers are rebuilding, the Warriors can leverage a deal for two-way swingman Jerami Grant, who has always been a perfect fit for Steve Kerr’s system as a shooter and defensive player.

Trade Details

Golden State Warriors Receive: Jerami Grant, Matisse Thybulle

Portland Trail Blazers Receive: Klay Thompson, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 Second-Round Pick

This proposed trade with the rebuilding Trail Blazers presents a compelling opportunity for Golden State to acquire a mix of versatility, defense, and shooting in the form of Jerami Grant and Matisse Thybulle. Grant, a two-way swingman, has long been considered a seamless fit for Steve Kerr’s system, thanks to his ability to shoot from beyond the arc, attack the rim, play off the ball, and defend multiple positions effectively.

With impressive stats of 21.7 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.7 blocks per game on 41.6% from three this season, Grant brings an offensive upgrade over the currently struggling Klay Thompson. The inclusion of defensive specialist Matisse Thybulle further fortifies the Warriors’ perimeter defense because the franchise ranks only 20th in defense this season and needs support in that regard. Thybulle is averaging 6.1 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game this season.

While Grant is not a superstar player, he is a better option for the Warriors than what the previous two trades give them. The forward is turning 30 years old this season which means he has at least a few more seasons at a high level which could be an interesting investment for the Golden State Warriors.

Adding An All-Star Big Man In Shocking Trade

The Warriors need size, even if they tend to focus on guard play and floor spacing. However, Pascal Siakam is no ordinary big man because he fits into the team’s playing style and could start rebuilding the dynasty.

Trade Details

Golden State Warriors Receive: Pascal Siakam

Toronto Raptors Receive: Klay Thompson, 2027 First-Round Pick

While the Warriors traditionally emphasize guard play and floor spacing, the move to acquire Pascal Siakam reflects a strategic shift to address the team’s need for size and versatility. Siakam, a modern big man, possesses a well-rounded skill set that includes scoring, rebounding, passing, and solid defensive capabilities. His All-Star pedigree makes him a valuable addition to the Warriors, providing a dynamic presence alongside Stephen Curry.

Siakam’s ability to contribute on both ends of the floor could create a formidable little-big pairing with Curry, adding a new dimension to the team’s playing style. The two-time All-Star is averaging 22.4 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 0.9 steals per game on 52.1% from the field. The surprising acquisition of Siakam signals the Warriors’ intent to build a roster that can potentially reignite the dynasty they once had.

Since the Raptors have already traded OG Anunoby, it is highly expected that the Raptors are shopping their best player and shipping him out to the Western Conference minimizes the impact Siakam can come back to hurt them with later on.

Blockbuster Deal For Zach LaVine

The best way for the Warriors to get back on top is to acquire the best player on the trade market right now: Zach LaVine. LaVine is currently on the trading block but he is a go-to scorer who can space the floor perfectly, making him a great fit alongside Stephen Curry.

Trade Details

Golden State Warriors Receive: Zach LaVine

Chicago Bulls Receive: Klay Thompson, Brandin Podziemski, 2027 First-Round Pick, 2029 First-Round Pick

The proposed blockbuster deal for Zach LaVine represents a bold move by the Warriors to acquire one of the league’s premier scorers and elevate their chances of returning to the top. LaVine’s scoring ability and floor-spacing make him an ideal fit alongside Stephen Curry, providing the Warriors with a dynamic and explosive backcourt. At only 28 years old, LaVine offers a long-term investment, aligning well with the Warriors’ vision for sustained success.

In Steve Kerr’s system, which emphasizes ball movement, spacing, and three-point shooting, LaVine’s skill set aligns seamlessly. His scoring prowess, combined with Curry’s elite shooting, creates a formidable offensive duo that can stretch defenses and exploit mismatches. LaVine’s ability to create his shot, drive to the basket, and knock down three-pointers adds a new dimension to the Warriors’ offensive repertoire. LaVine is averaging 21.0 points per game on 33.6% from three this season in a down year so he needs to move to a different situation.

The impact of this trade extends beyond the Warriors’ roster. In the Western Conference, acquiring a player of LaVine’s caliber could significantly shift the balance of power, making the Warriors immediate contenders. The potential return of Draymond Green, especially if he maintains good behavior, further enhances the Warriors’ chances of reclaiming their dynasty status. The combination of Curry, LaVine, and a potentially returning Green could form a Big Three capable of competing at the highest level.