Golden State Warriors: The pros and cons of trading for Victor Oladipo

Golden State Warriors: The verdict on trading for Victor Oladipo

The Golden State Warriors should be looking to make some move ahead of the trade deadline, but Victor Oladipo should not be high on their list of priorities. Among the injury concerns and Oladipo’s rumored desire to put on that Miami Heat jersey next season, this would be a risk for Golden State.

Nevertheless, if the Warriors were to disregard Oladipo’s interest in the Heat and make a move for him, it would be difficult. On the books for $21 million this season, Golden State could include Andrew Wiggins or Kelly Oubre Jr. as a centerpiece, but the challenging part is Houston’s potential demand for draft picks. As O’Connor noted in his reporting, the Warriors have little to offer in terms of draft assets:

"Plus, Golden State wouldn’t have a whole lot to offer. Because of picks owed elsewhere, the Warriors are able to deal up to just two first-round picks: one from 2021 (via Minnesota) or 2022, and one from 2026 or 2027."

Golden State is likely not trading away their draft capital from the Minnesota Timberwolves unless a surefire superstar becomes available, and Oladipo is not that. Perhaps they could dangle Oubre, salary filler, and a pick in 2026 or 2027, but the overall idea of a trade poses more questions than answers for the Golden State Warriors.

With Oladipo likely seeking a payday worth north of $100 million in free agency, the team with the highest payroll in the league should stand pat. Other needle tipping additions could surface in trade talks down the road, and the Warriors should save their assets until then.