Should the Golden State Warriors consider trading Green and Thompson?

The Golden State Warriors have another tough decision on their hands.

After missing 31 months recovering from a torn ACL and Achilles, the sweet-shooting Thompson returned to play in 32 regular season games, averaging 20.4 points per game on 42% shooting. During the playoffs, he averaged 19.0 points a contest and showed signs of wearing down after not playing competitively for almost three years.

Before his injuries, Klay was an elite defender. At his peak in 2013-14, his defensive win shares were 3.2 compared to last season’s 1.2 (the second lowest in his career). During the playoffs, Thompson showed promise of defending at an elite level.

Thompson addressed concerns during Media Day about returning after winning the championship last season,

"“I’m hungry as ever still because I still remember those two years I had to watch. I’m eager to play a full season and show people what I’m capable of again.”"

If Poole and the Warriors agree on a rookie extension and the young guard’s play elevates while Klay struggles, Thompson becomes expendable. Moses Moody, another promising player, should move up in the rotation this season, providing more competition at the two-guard spot.

I expect the Warriors to keep the team together as they attempt to repeat.

If the season goes sideways due to injuries or other unforeseen situations, the possibility of starting over is not farfetched. Moving Green and Thompson midway through next season would save the Warriors about $40 million in the 2023-24 season if they only took draft picks or expiring contracts back, and millions more in luxury tax savings. Then they could sub Poole and Kuminga into the starting lineup.

The Golden State Warriors’ title defense begins on October 18 versus LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers.