The Golden State Warriors have been the model of NBA success over the last decade. They couldn’t have asked for more. The Warriors have been a dynasty, and for a long time, the rest of the league didn’t have an answer for them.
How did they find so much success? Part of their model has involved punting on big men. Kevon Looney is a solid role player but wouldn’t start on most playoff teams. The Warriors have been guard-driven, and they’ve prioritized wings over bigs as well.
For the most part, it’s worked. This year, it isn’t working. The Warriors have been mediocre. Meanwhile, rumors suggest they’re in the market for a big man.
Could they send Andrew Wiggins to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Jarrett Allen?
NBA Trade Proposal: Cleveland Cavaliers Land Golden State Warriors’ Andrew Wiggins
Golden State Warriors Receive: C Jarrett Allen, F Dean Wade
Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: G/F Andrew Wiggins, 2026 First-Round Pick (GSW)
The Warriors have provided one framework for success. With that said, the league has changed even since their dynasty got underway. Is the league trending back towards big men?
One could make that case. Look at last season. Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers was the MVP. That award was somewhat controversial – because some felt it should have gone to Nikola Jokic of the Denver Nuggets. In other words, the two best players in the league were big men.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors Updates
Some teams are even doubling down on bigs. The Cavaliers have been one of those teams. By starting Allen alongside Evan Mobley, they’ve got a modernized Twin Towers model.
Should they cut ties with that lineup?
Why The Cleveland Cavaliers Do The Deal
Realistically, size will always be an advantage in basketball. Still, size alone won’t win you games. Teams have a lot of needs – and shooting is perhaps chief among them.
That’s why the Cavaliers have sometimes struggled. Allen and Mobley are both below-average shooters. That limited spacing cost the Cavaliers in last year’s playoffs. Is this duo viable on a long-term basis?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors Updates
If the Cavaliers don’t think so, moving Allen makes sense. Meanwhile, Wiggins is having a rough season, but in theory, he’s the type of 3-and-D wing that this team needs. Finally, the Cavs should be happy to land an unprotected first – they’re light on draft capital.
Should the Warriors part with that asset?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
It’s been rumored that the Warriors are shopping for a big. With that said, we should be more specific. The rumors have suggested that Golden State is seeking a big man who can go out and get a bucket.
Allen doesn’t precisely fit the bill. With that said, he has a soft touch around the rim. Allen can score on the interior. Still, his primary value comes on the defensive end of the floor.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors Updates
With that said, the Warriors could use the rim protection. Allen’s ability to stifle layup attempts and control the glass should make them a vastly better team. This deal may have the Warriors straying from their typical model, but that might be the best move at this point in their season.
