As the playoffs quickly approach, the Golden State Warriors are struggling to get healthy. Injuries have plagued them all season, causing them to fall short of expectations.
Even if they manage to qualify for the playoffs, they will still face the uphill battle of a deep playoff run. As a result, a lot is riding on this summer.
Golden State is in desperate need of more talent but is left to wait and hope that they can lure a star to the Bay Area this summer. The most obvious candidate would be Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who appears all but certain to be traded.
Giannis Antetokounmpo is the Warriors' last hope
Especially with Bucks ownership all but confirming that possibility if he doesn't agree to sign an extension in October. Given how poorly things have gone in Milwaukee, the Warriors are rooting for Giannis to hit the trade block.
The Warriors are arguably the most attractive destination for Giannis, not only for location but also for star power as well. Steph Curry might be 38 years old, but he is still one of the best players in the NBA.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler is 36 years old and will be coming off an ACL tear next season but is still a star-caliber player. Ironically, the only star player I'm not mentioning on the Warriors is Draymond Green.
Giannis Antetokounmpo can salvage the Warriors' dynasty
He isn't so much a star now, but he has been with the Warriors for 15 seasons and would likely be traded in a potential Giannis deal. Given his declining play and antics, that might be for the best.
Especially if it lands them a massive upgrade in Giannis. What could end up proving more costly is trading up to four first-round picks as well as three pick swaps.
However, if it buys them a two-year window where they are legitimate title contenders, then it might be worth it. Even if it makes rebuilding post-Curry and post-Giannis much harder.