Warriors Expected to Pursue $90 Million Breakout Star in Offseason…
Predicting how the Golden State Warriors will approach the offseason is challenging, especially following the Jimmy Butler trade that revitalized their season.
The extent of roster adjustments will depend on how these Butler-led Warriors perform down the stretch. However, Bleacher Report’s salary cap expert Eric Pincus has already projected that the Warriors may set their sights on Los Angeles Clippers breakout star Norman Powell.
The 31-year-old Powell has capitalized on Paul George’s departure and Kawhi Leonard’s early-season injury, emerging as a key contributor for the Clippers.
Averaging a career-high 23.4 points per game as a full-time starter, Powell has played a crucial role for a Clippers team currently trailing the Warriors by two games for the No. 6 seed in the highly competitive Western Conference. The 10-year veteran was also considered one of the biggest All-Star snubs in San Francisco.
His scoring surge is highlighted by a career-best 3.2 three-pointers per game on 7.7 attempts, shooting an efficient 42.2% from deep. His high-volume and accurate shooting make him an appealing target for the Warriors this offseason.
Warriors’ Potential Trade Assets
Powell is set to enter the final season of his five-year, $90 million contract, earning $20.5 million next year.
According to Pincus, the Warriors’ trade assets this summer include Buddy Hield ($9.2 million), Brandin Podziemski ($3.2 million), and Jonathan Kuminga (potential sign-and-trade).
“The team’s biggest offseason decision revolves around Kuminga, who is expected to command a significant salary as a restricted free agent. The Warriors could retain him, though it may push their payroll into the second apron. Alternatively, they might opt for a sign-and-trade to maximize his value while avoiding additional financial constraints,” Pincus explained.
If the Warriors and Kuminga fail to reach an extension agreement again this offseason, a sign-and-trade for Powell could be a viable path.
Jonathan Kuminga’s Return
After missing 32 games, Kuminga’s return to action has delivered mixed results.
In his first game back, he impressed with 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting off the bench, helping the Warriors cruise to a 130-104 victory over the Sacramento Kings on March 13.
“I love that my man came out aggressive, scoring, playing with high energy, dunking the basketball,” Jimmy Butler said after their first game together. “I want him to be his best, continue to be great, and help this team do something special.”
Kuminga admitted he was initially hesitant about disrupting the team’s rhythm.
“When I came back, I didn’t want to mess things up—I didn’t want to be the guy,” Kuminga told reporters after the win. “It’s just nerves. But once you’re out there, you realize things are pretty simple.”
However, his offensive production dipped in his second game—a gritty 97-94 win over the New York Knicks on March 15. In a playoff-like atmosphere, Kuminga managed 10 points on 3-of-8 shooting but contributed in other areas with five assists, five rebounds, and one block.
It’s clear that Kuminga is still adjusting to the revamped Warriors, who have found success in his absence since Butler’s arrival. If he hopes to secure the $35 million annual salary he sought in last offseason’s failed extension talks, he must demonstrate greater consistency before hitting restricted free agency.
