The Golden State Warriors are enduring a tough start to the 2024-25 NBA season, which might prompt the organization to start considering their offseason plans earlier than anticipated. Shockingly, this could involve a blockbuster trade sending their star point guard, Steph Curry, to the Los Angeles Lakers.
According to Yahoo Sports’ Kevin O’Connor, there is a possibility that Curry could be traded to the Lakers, especially with their strong supporting cast. O’Connor mentioned the presence of Austin Reaves, Anthony Davis, and recent additions like Dorian Finney-Smith, which could make the Lakers an attractive destination for the Warriors' prized point guard.
“Is there a possibility that it’s the other way around,” O’Connor posed last Friday. “That it’s Steph ending up in LA, because the Lakers also have Austin Reaves, Anthony Davis, they just got Dorian Finney-Smith, they have a pretty good supporting cast.”
O'Connor also pointed out the Warriors' struggles, stating, “The Warriors feel like a more depleted team, especially if some of their young guys walk, (Jonathan) Kuminga goes; maybe (Moses) Moody doesn’t develop anymore. They have these guys who are going to be in and out of the organization.”
Warriors’ Struggles Fuel Trade Talk
While Curry has been a staple of the Warriors for years, O'Connor noted that the team's overall future might be uncertain. “(Andrew) Wiggins isn’t there for long, he’s solid, (Dennis) Schröder's not going to be there for long. Maybe it’s the other way around; with Steph ending up in LA, I could see that as well.”
However, it's important to note that Curry isn’t eligible to be traded before the end of the current season. O'Connor clarified, “For what it’s worth, just to be clear to the listeners, before the deadline this year, LeBron is eligible to be traded; Stephen Curry is not eligible to be traded, so Steph can’t end up in LA before the end of this season.”
Curry’s Legacy and Future in Golden State
Curry has had an illustrious career with the Warriors, winning four championships, earning two MVP awards, and making 10 All-Star teams. Despite his personal success, the Warriors are currently facing challenges. With a 18-17 record through the first 35 games of the season, the team's future remains uncertain.
Although Curry's trade is not likely to happen during the current season, the possibility of a major move in the summer looms. If the Warriors’ struggles persist, they may consider starting fresh and moving on from Curry after his 16 years with the team.
Potential Lakers Trade for Curry in 2025
In a potential trade scenario with the Lakers, the Warriors would likely require a significant return. O'Connor suggested that the Lakers could offer a trade package that includes Dalton Knecht, a talented rookie, to help set the Warriors up for the future.
If the two teams can come to an agreement, Curry, the 36-year-old superstar, could make his way to Los Angeles for the 2025-26 NBA season, marking the end of an era in Golden State and the beginning of a new chapter for the NBA legend.