The Golden State Warriors have been involved in trade rumors this offseason, with speculation centering on a potential move for Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen. However, recent reports suggest that Markkanen might not be available, prompting the Warriors to explore other options for acquiring a superstar.
Dan Favale of Bleacher Report proposed a blockbuster trade that could reshape the 2024-25 season: the Warriors would trade Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Andrew Wiggins, and several future first-round picks to the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for point guard LaMelo Ball.
The proposed deal would involve the Warriors sending Moody, Podziemski, Wiggins, a 2026 first-round pick, a 2027 first-round swap, a 2028 first-round pick, a 2029 first-round swap, and a 2030 first-round pick (protected Nos. 21 to 30; if not conveyed, it becomes a 2031 second-rounder) to the Hornets in return for Ball.
Favale mentioned that while trading Ball isn’t a necessity for the Hornets, his history of ankle injuries and the team’s rebuilding phase might make him a potential trade candidate. Ball, who suffered a broken right ankle in March 2023 and later signed a five-year, $203 million extension, is recognized as one of the NBA’s top passers when healthy.
Ball’s standout season was in 2021-22 when he averaged 20.1 points, 7.6 assists, and 6.7 rebounds over 75 games and earned an All-Star selection. However, injuries have limited his playing time in the past two seasons. If the Warriors were to consider acquiring him, they would need assurance of his full recovery.
Favale argued that while Ball comes with risks, his playmaking and shot-making abilities make him a strong fit for the Warriors’ current and future needs, especially compared to someone like Markkanen. Ball, who will turn 23 in August, has averaged over 20 points per game in each of his last three seasons.
Despite the potential appeal of Ball, the Warriors may be hesitant to part with Brandin Podziemski, who had a promising rookie season and was a key player in their lineup. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported that the Warriors were highly interested in Markkanen but were unwilling to meet Utah’s steep demands, which included Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, and Podziemski, along with draft picks.
After waiving Chris Paul and parting ways with Klay Thompson, the Warriors appear poised to make a significant move this offseason. However, it remains uncertain how much they are willing to sacrifice to secure a new star player.
