Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
The Warriors have two motives here. Firstly, they’re avoiding making a decision on Andrew Wiggins’ impending free agency. In all likelihood, he’ll command more than Allen’s $20 million annual salary, by virtue of archetype – in 2022, wings get paid.
Meanwhile, the Warriors’ books are getting messy: here, they get value for Wiggins before, in all likelihood, he walks for nothing.
Secondly, the Warriors acquire the best center they’ve had in their modern era. Allen is an elite rim runner and rim protector. Moreover, he’s a high-feel player and quality screen setter who should be to get the hang of the Warriors’ somewhat complex system.
That screen setting will be particularly valuable in creating space for Steph Curry and the Warriors’ myriad of shooters. On the other hand, Caris LeVert’s inconsistent floor spacing may make him a poor fit with this roster.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers & Golden State Warriors Updates
Unless that is, he plays a sixth-man role. The Warriors, in theory, could slot Klay Thompson up to the 3, insert Jordan Poole into the starting lineup, and land a new starting big and a sixth man without missing a beat. If all goes well, it could allow them to define this era of NBA basketball for another handful of years.
