The Golden State Warriors could use a third star to pair with Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler in the Bay.
In a hypothetical blockbuster three-team trade idea crafted by Sports Illustrated’s Alan Goldsher, the Dubs would land a 6-foot-5 Los Angeles Lakers star guard coming off a career year.
“Golden State’s shooting guard situation hasn’t been optimal since Klay Thompson decamped in Dallas (Mavericks), which continues to be the case heading into the 2025-26 campaign, as ESPN’s depth chart currently has Brandin Podziemski starting at the two, and, spoiler alert, Podz ain’t exactly a championship-level producer,” Goldsher wrote Wednesday.
“(Austin) Reaves, however, has the potential to be just that, and with Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and even Buddy Hield sucking up defensive oxygen, Reaves should have plenty of open looks."
“This also solves the Dubs’ Jonathan Kuminga problem, and lands them (Kelly) Olynyk, a reliable veteran big off the bench, something for which they’re desperate.”
The Lakers would receive Lauri Markkanen and Kris Dunn, the Warriors would receive Reaves and Olynyk, and the Utah Jazz would receive Kuminga, Rui Hachimura, a 2029 first-round pick (via the Lakers), and a 2030 first-round pick (via the Warriors) in Goldsher's multi-team trade concept.
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Reaves’ sensational 2024-25 campaign should leave no doubt that he's a star in the big leagues.
The Oklahoma product looked more comfortable than ever as Los Angeles' No. 3 scoring option, showcasing his ability to create his own shot in one-on-one situations and play his best regular-season basketball in crunch time.
Reaves averaged a career-best 20.2 points and 5.8 assists per game while shooting 46.0% from the field and 37.7% from three.
Although the 27-year-old wasn't the same player in the postseason, there’s no logical argument to be made that he isn’t a high-level asset trending upward.
Reaves’ steady perimeter jumper combined with his late-game magic would give Curry, Butler, and the Dubs hope entering the 2025-26 campaign.
Golden State shouldn’t be hesitant to surround its new dynamic duo with a contributor who could help it capture an NBA title next June.
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