The NBA’s trade deadline is right around the corner. Some teams will have difficult decisions to make. They may have a player who they’d like to move who doesn’t have much of a market.
Look at the Golden State Warriors. They’re expected to move Andrew Wiggins. Unfortunately, his play this year is likely to limit his market. The Warriors may have difficulty moving Wiggins.
On the other hand, a team could see a buy-low opportunity. Wiggins was a valuable contributor to a title run just a short time ago. A team may want to gamble on him returning to that form. Could that team be the Milwaukee Bucks?
NBA Trade Proposal
Golden State Warriors Receive: F/C Bobby Portis, G/F Pat Connaughton, G Cameron Payne
Milwaukee Bucks Receive: G/F Andrew Wiggins
The deadline will be more difficult for some teams than others – and for different reasons, too. The Warriors may have difficulty moving their players. Wiggins isn’t the only player that they may have difficulty moving.
Yet, even those difficulties arise for several reasons. Could the Warriors move Klay Thompson? In theory, sure. In practice, that could be a tough sell for their fanbase. The Warriors may not like the optics either. Suddenly, they’ll be seen as a disloyal fanbase.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
On the other hand, the Bucks may have trouble landing a player. This team is light on assets. Yet, they also look like they need to make improvements at the deadline. Should they settle on Wiggins?
Why The Milwaukee Bucks Do The Deal
When Wiggins was a key cog in a Warriors title run, he emerged as a stout 3-and-D wing. This year, his shooting has been inconsistent, and his defense has fallen off. Can he return to form?
We think so. Wiggins is much bigger than Connaughton – let’s start there. Functionally speaking, he’s got more defensive upside. It’s also worth noting that Draymond Green is not the player he was just two years ago. Wiggins may have more defensive value playing alongside an elite defender like Giannis Antetokoumnpo.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
That would be optimal for the Bucks. Having moved Jrue Holiday for Damian Lillard, their defense has suffered. Acquiring Wiggins at least has the potential to improve them on that end of the floor. Should the Warriors part with him?
Why The Golden State Warriors Do The Deal
Above all else, the Warriors have financial motives here. Wiggins is on a long-term, expensive deal. Moving off of that contract will make life easier for them moving forward.
Here, they’re breaking his deal into a small expiring contract (Payne) and two smaller long-term deals. Moving Portis and/or Connaughton will be easy if that’s what the Warriors want to do moving forward. This is a financially prudent deal for the Warriors.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Andrew Wiggins, Golden State Warriors, Milwaukee Bucks Updates
It could help them in terms of basketball as well. The Warriors need to upgrade their 5 position – Portis can soak up some minutes there. Connaughton is a solid movement shooter who may thrive in their system as well. If this deal is on the table, it will make the Warriors’ deadline easier.
