Despite the Golden State Warriors' early-season success, they must keep a close eye on Washington Wizards big man, Anthony Davis. The Warriors showed interested in acquiring Davis over the summer, but trade talks obviously never went far with the Wizards.
However, they should circle back around and see if they can acquire him from Washington now, especially after Steph Curry's oblique injury. Although Davis has injury concerns, he is at least playing impressively well, averaging 25.2 points and 10 rebounds.
The same can't be said for the Warriors' center, Kristaps Porzingis. He is making $20 million this season but has yet to play a game and likely won't.
That increases the need for the Warriors to trade for a starting center who plays. Given that the Wizards are currently struggling, they may be interested in doing so depending on their priorities.
The Warriors must make a big swing trade for Anthony Davis
Despite the Warriors' early-season success, Curry's injury will send them crashing back down to earth. Adding Davis would increase their ceiling this season, though it isn't without risk.
As far as a potential trade, moving Jimmy Butler as well as a first-round pick to the Wizards might be a good starting point. The Warriors would get a massive upgrade at center while holding onto Porzingis, allowing them to make another deal later.
Yes, Davis may only be someone who can play 60 games in the regular season, but when healthy, he is clearly still an elite two-way player who could help Golden State make the playoffs. Given that they started this season seemingly unlikely to make even a play-in tournament, that would be a big deal.
The Warriors must make a big swing trade for Anthony Davis
While adding Davis certainly comes with the risk, the Warriors need more from their current roster, and having several players out affects their ceiling. Butler probably won't play until January, while Moses Moody is out for the season.
Factor in Porzingis, chilling at home, and they have $89 million in salary not playing. Moving Butler for Davis solves that problem and gives them positive value. After doing next to nothing in the offseason, making a big move early this would help to make up for it.
If the Wizards are open to moving Davis, who has been non-commital on staying in Washington, then the Warriors could and should jump at the chance to trade for him.
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