NBA Rumors: Warriors may consider trading star if struggles continue

After an encouraging start to the 2023–24 season, the Golden State Warriors have regressed back into a troubling trend of inconsistency. They are currently under .500 and are just 3-7 in the last 10 games, while players such as Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins have been underwhelming thus far.

On the other hand, future Hall of Famer Chris Paul has lived up to expectations thus far. He's helped boost the Warriors' second unit, giving them someone who can help keep their bench afloat while Steph Curry rests. However, with a $30.8 million salary and a partial guarantee for next season, Mike Scotto of Hoops Hype reports that the Warriors may potentially be willing to move him if necessary.

Would the Golden State Warriors really trade Chris Paul?

If that is the case, Paul would be a great trade asset for Golden State. After all, moving him would potentially allow them to upgrade their roster without gutting it in the process, but that may be a last resort if the Warriors cannot turn things around.

However, given the struggles of Thompson, Wiggins, and the continued erratic play of Draymond Green, it might be just a matter of time before Paul becomes available. If they do put him on the trading block, it is likely to go star shopping, with players such as Pascal Siakam or Zach LaVine being an option.

With Siakiam and LaVine making $29 million and $37.1 million, respectively, the Warriors could use Paul's contract to help match salaries. Golden State would likely need to also include Jonathan Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and a future first-round pick for Siakam and Kuminga, Moses Moody, and a protected future first for LaVine.

Whether the Chicago Bulls or Toronto Raptors would agree to the hypothetical deals is unclear, but Paul's contract would allow the Warriors to make a competitive offer without having to give up Thompson, Wiggins, or Green. Ultimately, if Golden State can turn around their season, then Paul may play out the year with the Warriors. But if they can't, then he could be used as a big trade chip to try and add another star.

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