Two Players May Be Targeted by Warriors Before Trade Deadline

The Golden State Warriors have had a strong start to the season, holding the No. 1 spot in the Western Conference with an 11-3 record after the first month. They’ve been dominant on both ends of the court and currently rank third in net rating (+10.2). Despite this success, the Warriors were actively exploring trade options over the summer, pursuing stars like Paul George and Lauri Markkanen, though those deals fell through. However, insiders believe the team is likely to make a trade before the deadline.

Given their strong performance, the Warriors don’t need a major acquisition, but adding a player who complements their roster, especially with De’Anthony Melton’s season-ending injury, would be ideal. One possibility could be Brooklyn Nets forwards Cam Johnson and Dorian Finney-Smith.

Johnson, averaging 18.1 points and 4.3 rebounds this season, is an elite wing player and a three-level scorer, shooting 39.3% from three-point range on nearly eight attempts per game. His versatile scoring ability would fit well within the Warriors’ motion offense, especially alongside Draymond Green. However, acquiring Johnson would come at a high cost, likely requiring the Warriors to part with a young asset like Jonathan Kuminga or Brandin Podziemski, or potentially Andrew Wiggins and additional first-round picks to match the Nets’ asking price for his $23.6 million salary.

Alternatively, Finney-Smith, who averages 11.2 points and 4.7 rebounds while shooting 42.5% from three, could be a more affordable target. While not the offensive force Johnson is, Finney-Smith is a reliable defender with high basketball IQ and the versatility to guard both the perimeter and the paint. He is also a capable shooter, with a proven ability to hit big shots in the postseason. At $14.9 million, Finney-Smith’s price tag is lower, making him a potential target for a first-round pick and a player like Moses Moody, who has struggled to find his role with the Warriors despite a recent contract extension.

The Nets could acquire valuable young assets in a trade for either player, and the Warriors would gain a veteran forward to help in their championship pursuit. The direction the Warriors take as the trade deadline approaches will be worth watching closely.