The Golden State Warriors have yet to make a move this offseason, but the dynastic franchise may be in a position to finally bite the bullet and complete a transaction at the expense of a reeling Pacific Division foe.
After the release of a bombshell report on Wednesday, the Los Angeles Clippers' world turned upside down, as it was alleged by NBA personality Pablo Torre that the organization circumvented the league's salary cap to pay their 2-time NBA champion forward Kawhi Leonard $28 million for a 'no-show job.'
Even without this situation in mind, the Clippers have other worries heading into the 2025-26 campaign. The team is old, and one injury can completely derail their season.
Los Angeles could be headed for a reset, especially if Leonard's off-court situation continues to progress in a negative fashion. In that case, the Warriors may view this update as a blessing in disguise and an opportunity to snag one of the Clippers' most reliable veteran role players to support their 4-time NBA champion Stephen Curry.
If the Warriors intend on being aggressive in the aftermath of Torre's report, then the Clippers' 28-year-old forward Derrick Jones Jr. might become an intriguing trade target for a team looking to solidify their reserve unit.
Following his departure from the Dallas Mavericks in the summer of 2024, the combo-forward contributed an impressive 10.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.0 steals while sporting a 60.9% true shooting percentage in 77 appearances and 55 starts during the regular season.
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A hypothetical trade for the former undrafted prospect would likely cost the Warriors a player like Moses Moody, but it could be a deal the team is willing to make in an effort to extend Curry's championship window.
Jones Jr. is recognized as one of the league's bounciest players, but his incredible athleticism is only one piece of the puzzle with regard to his impact on contending teams.
The high-flying wing became a fantastic supporting piece for a Mavericks team that made the 2024 NBA Finals through his defensive effort and ability to get out in transition. As a member of the Clippers this past season, he continued to build on his skill set by adding a fairly consistent outside shot to his arsenal.
Golden State could plausibly benefit from acquiring a player of Jones Jr.'s archetype, as his two-way ability and improving three-point shot may be attractive qualities to the Warriors' general manager Mike Dunleavy.
It remains unlikely that Jones Jr. eventually heads to the Warriors via trade, but it's a concept that could gain traction prior to the 2025-26 trade deadline.
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