1 dream, 1 nightmare, and 1 realistic trade target for the Warriors

Dream trade target: Giannis Antetokounmpo

While losing Giannis Antetokounmpo is a worst-case scenario for Milwaukee, the best-case scenario for Golden State is acquiring the 'Greek Freak' via trade or when he hits free agency in either 2026-27 or 2027-28.

After losing Kevin Durant years ago, ideas of how to replace Durant have remained imminent. One player who's remained linked to Golden State over the last few seasons is Antetokounmpo, who pushed back his free agency further after a three-year, $175 million extension.

Arguably a future Hall of Famer already, Giannis is a two-time MVP (finishing fourth or higher in MVP voting the last six seasons, seventh or better the previous eight seasons). The accolades don't end there for Giannis, with an NBA championship, NBA Finals MVP, Defensive Player of the Year, and Most Improved Player awards. The 'Greek Freak' also sports six All-NBA First-Team appearances and four All-Defense First-Team (five in total). Acquiring the 'Greek Freak' would completely shift the league.

If acquired via trade, the Warriors would almost certainly have to trade both of Andrew Wiggins and Draymond Green. A move for Giannis would be detrimental to Golden State's depth, but it would also create arguably the best superstar duo of all time (Giannis and Curry).

Such a high-risk move comes with an even higher reward for the Warriors. If there is an opportunity to acquire Antetokounmpo, Golden State must pounce on it. The move would extend both players' championship window.

The options are plentiful for Golden State. With glaring holes on the roster, in addition to the need to improve, the Warriors have several routes they could take. Stephen Curry is in the final stages of his career, therefore shortening the championship window for Golden State. However, a trade could extend the chances of holding the Larry O'Brien Trophy one more time.