Despite their recent steps in the right, the Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers have flown somewhat under the radar in the Western Conference. While the Warriors boast quality depth on their roster, concerns remain about their ability to provide sufficient support for Stephen Curry during the playoffs.
This uncertainty, coupled with the limited window for championship contention with Curry under contract through 2026-27, might incentivize the Warriors to explore more aggressive trade options. A potential trade for Kawhi Leonard, despite the inherent risks, could be considered as a bold move to maximize their championship window.
Trade Proposal Sends Clippers, Leonard To Warriors
In a recent article, Fadeaway World lists Leonard among players the Warriors should consider trading for to boost their chances of making a final run with Curry in his prime while sending a surfeit of talent with plenty of upside (and cheap deals) to the Clippers.
“Kawhi Leonard is the ultimate wildcard, and if the Warriors can pull off a stunning trade for him, it could change everything.” Eddie Bitar of FW writes. “Leonard’s two-way dominance, highlighted by his career averages of 19.6 PPG and elite defense, would instantly make Golden State a top contender. However, acquiring Kawhi would likely require a package centered around Andrew Wiggins, Brandin Podziemski, De’Anthony Melton, Gary Payton II, and the 2026 First-Round Pick.
Despite Leonard’s injury concerns (as he has yet to play a game this season), his championship pedigree and ability to take over games in the postseason make him a tantalizing option. This move would carry significant risk, but the potential reward—another title run—could justify the gamble. If the Warriors want to shock the NBA world, Kawhi might be the answer.”
The Clippers have been far from the most talked-about team in trade rumors, mostly because they seem pleased with the performances they are getting from James Harden, Norman Powell, Ivica Zubac, and Derrick Jones Jr.
There is a “Waiting for Godot” feeling about the Clippers and Leonard’s eventual return from knee surgery. While most surmise that Leonard’s arrival will be what puts the team into contention, there is no guarantee it will play out like that. Could a play to the future be the right path for the 2024-2025 Clippers?
The acquisition of Andrew Wiggins, a key contributor to the Warriors’ 2022 championship run, would provide the Clippers with a proven winner and a versatile wing player who can immediately impact their roster. Wiggins, at 29 years old, brings a strong all-around game, averaging 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.0 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game in the 2021-22 playoffs.
Melton, an elite defender in the backcourt, and Podziemski provide complementary pieces for a retooled Clippers roster that now has more flexibility and depth. The 2026 first-round pick adds another asset to their future war chest, and while it’s a painful reality to trade a star like Kawhi, the Clippers will finally be able to rebuild with a new vision around Harden, in the last few years of his prime.