The era of dominance for the Golden State Warriors may have reached its conclusion. Speculation about the decline of the four-time NBA champions had been circulating, and the tipping point might have been reached with their recent defeat by the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, with a score of 118-94.
Following a tumultuous season where the Warriors ended up in 10th place in the Western Conference and key players like Draymond Green, Klay Thompson, and Andrew Wiggins faced difficulties, the franchise is in need of change. One potential move could involve trading none other than Stephen Curry.
At 36 years old, Curry must prioritize his career, especially with him turning 37 next season and entering the twilight of his time in the league. Essentially, the point guard must position himself for a chance to win at least one more NBA championship. While Golden State would only entertain trading their greatest-ever player if he initiates the request, if that scenario unfolds, there are five offers that could compel the Warriors to make a move this summer.
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: Stephen Curry
Golden State Warriors Receive: Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, 2025 Second-Round Pick (MIL)
The proposed trade between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Golden State Warriors, sending Stephen Curry to Cleveland in exchange for Darius Garland, Jarrett Allen, Caris LeVert, and a 2025 second-round pick from the Milwaukee Bucks, is unquestionably captivating. Curry’s potential return to his hometown of Akron, Ohio, where LeBron James previously led the Cavaliers to an NBA championship in 2016, adds a poignant and symbolic dimension to the agreement.
On the basketball court, adding Curry to the Cavaliers would undoubtedly raise the team’s performance to new heights. Teaming Curry with Donovan Mitchell (averaging 26.6 PPG), assuming he stays with the Cavaliers, would form one of the NBA’s most dynamic backcourts. Curry’s exceptional shooting and playmaking, combined with Mitchell’s scoring ability and defensive prowess, would make the Cavaliers a potent offensive force.
Furthermore, with Evan Mobley (averaging 15.7 PPG, 9.4 RPG) continuing to grow and potentially reaching new heights in his career, the Cavaliers would possess a promising young nucleus to build around despite Allen’s departure in the trade. Beyond the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks, the Cleveland Cavaliers would boast one of the top duos in the Eastern Conference and a foundation to develop over the next couple of seasons.
Miami Heat Receive: Stephen Curry
Golden State Warriors Receive: Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, Nikola Jovic, 2029 First-Round Pick
Acquiring Curry would undoubtedly elevate the Miami Heat to championship contender status. With Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo anchoring a formidable defensive lineup, Curry’s offensive prowess would significantly bolster Miami’s scoring capabilities, addressing a notable weakness as they ranked 3rd in defense but only 26th in offense. By teaming up with Butler and Adebayo, Curry would form a potent trio capable of competing at the highest level in the NBA.
Curry’s exceptional shooting and playmaking skills would not only enhance the team’s offensive efficiency but also create ample opportunities for Butler and Adebayo to shine. Moreover, Curry’s fit within Miami’s culture of hard work, discipline, and a winning mindset would likely rejuvenate him, enabling him to sustain a high level of performance and potentially secure a fifth championship.
Conversely, the Golden State Warriors would receive a package including promising young talents like Herro, Robinson, and Jovic, along with a future first-round pick. Both Herro and Robinson possess sharpshooting abilities that could complement the Warriors’ system well, while Jovic would provide valuable frontcourt depth.
Oklahoma City Thunder Receive: Stephen Curry
Golden State Warriors Receive: Jalen Willimas, Josh Giddey, Luguentz Dort, 2025 First-Round Pick, 2027 First-Round Pick (LAC), 2028 Second-Round Pick
The Oklahoma City Thunder have surprised the NBA by securing the top spot in the Western Conference this season, led by standout performances from MVP contender Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who’s averaging 30.1 points per game, and Rookie of the Year hopeful Chet Holmgren, boasting 16.5 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. Bringing in Curry would undoubtedly expedite their journey to contention, forming a formidable trio alongside Gilgeous-Alexander and Holmgren.
Curry’s playoff experience and exceptional shooting would revolutionize the Thunder’s offense, which already ranked 3rd in the league. His ability to stretch the floor and create scoring opportunities would beautifully complement Gilgeous-Alexander’s playmaking and Holmgren’s diverse skill set. Additionally, Curry’s leadership and championship pedigree would provide invaluable guidance to the young Thunder roster, enhancing their development. His seamless integration into Oklahoma City’s system would elevate their offense to new heights, posing a significant challenge for Western Conference rivals.
Conversely, the Golden State Warriors would receive a package of promising young players in Williams, Giddey, and Dort, along with future draft picks. Williams and Giddey have displayed considerable potential early in their careers, while Dort is renowned for his defensive prowess. The additional draft picks would furnish the Warriors with crucial assets to fortify their roster for the future.
San Antonio Spurs Receive: Stephen Curry
Golden State Warriors Receive: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2025 First-Round Pick (ATL), 2027 First-Round Pick, 2026 Second-Round Pick
Acquiring Stephen Curry would instantly elevate the San Antonio Spurs into playoff contention next season. Teaming Curry with Victor Wembanyama, a rising star known for his size, length, and defensive skills, would establish a formidable duo capable of leading the Spurs for years. Curry’s exceptional shooting and playmaking, combined with Wembanyama’s defensive prowess and rim protection, would create a potent combination that could propel the Spurs to the NBA’s elite ranks.
Furthermore, Curry’s championship experience and leadership would offer invaluable mentorship to the young Spurs squad, fostering a winning culture in San Antonio and accelerating their development. Gregg Popovich’s system would showcase Curry’s talents brilliantly, addressing the Spurs’ need for a point guard to maximize Wembanyama’s impact.
Conversely, the Golden State Warriors would receive a package including promising young players in Vassell and Johnson, along with future draft picks. Vassell exhibits versatility as a wing player with defensive aptitude, while Johnson contributes as a reliable scorer and rebounder. The additional draft assets would bolster the Warriors’ ability to construct and refine their roster for long-term success.
Charlotte Hornets Receive: Stephen Curry
Charlotte Hornets Receive: LaMelo Ball, Tre Mann, Nick Richards, 2027 First-Round Pick (DAL), 2024 Second-Round Pick (OKC)
Acquiring Stephen Curry could be a game-changer for the Charlotte Hornets, potentially lifting their franchise to new heights and reshaping their team culture. Despite their struggles, boasting only 21 wins and finishing 13th in the Eastern Conference, the Hornets possess promising young talent like Brandon Miller, who’s emerging as an offensive force. Bringing Curry on board for a short-term stint of two or three years could infuse invaluable veteran leadership, fast-tracking the development of their youthful squad and boosting their on-court performance.
Curry’s unparalleled shooting and playmaking skills would not only create scoring opportunities for Miller and the rest of the team but could also catapult them up the Eastern Conference rankings. This move might position them as contenders for the first time since their spirited 2015-16 playoff run against the Miami Heat, where they battled to a seven-game series.
Conversely, in this hypothetical scenario, the Golden State Warriors would acquire LaMelo Ball, a dynamic young point guard brimming with potential, alongside Tre Mann, Nick Richards, and future draft picks. Retaining Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody would enable the Warriors to rebuild around a youthful core, while Ball’s playmaking prowess and court vision could potentially help offset the loss of Curry.
