Despite Steph Curry‘s recent statement cautioning his franchise of exchanging the future for a quick fix-now solution, the Golden State Warriors are still looking for a significant trade to improve the roster and chances of competing this season. Jimmy Butler has been linked to Golden State; however, it might be that the interest only goes one way in that hypothetical scenario. Butler isn’t the only star the Warriors are interested in trading for, though, as Zach LaVine remains available for the Chicago Bulls.
Warriors Value Bulls Star Over Jimmy Butler
Warriors See Trading for Chicago Bulls Star Zach LaVine As Option A
Butler’s desired destination is the Phoenix Suns, which is old news by now. That said, other teams reportedly continue to inquire about him, the Warriors being one of them. However, according to The Athletic’s Anthony Slater and Marcus Thompson, the Warriors actually view LaVine as their preferred option to trade for over the disgruntled Miami Heat star.
It is believed that among the Warriors, LaVine holds greater value within the locker room. While it is not specific which players hold this view, it speaks to the perception of LaVine and Butler. Additionally, considering LaVine’s contract and age compared to Butler, the 2x All-Star is considered the safer option. LaVine is six years younger than Butler. He’s also playing on a deal this season that is $6 million cheaper than Butler’s current contract. LaVine’s overall contract (extending past Butler’s) has come into question this season, and the offseason, mind you. It’s been the determining factor in why Chicago has had trouble unloading him to another franchise.
Avoiding Injuries in Bounce Back Year
Both LaVine and Butler have dealt with injuries over the past couple of seasons, LaVine especially. That being said, he’s putting together a solid season, averaging 24.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 34 minutes per night. On top of that, LaVine has remained healthy, playing in 42 of Chicago’s 48 games. Considering he played in just 25 games last season, the 2024-25 campaign has been overwhelmingly kind to him thus far.
Several teams are considering LaVine for a deadline trade because of his health and availability this season, not to mention his All-Star-worthy numbers. The Warriors are not the only ones interested. The Milwaukee Bucks and the Los Angeles Lakers have also been linked to LaVine. Suppose he can maintain his health and present production level. If Chicago trades him, he’ll significantly impact the team that acquires him.
Should Golden State Listen to Steph or Make A Splash?
It was an interesting remark from Curry, given his team’s current struggles. Curry is simply not meant to play on bad teams that can’t compete for playoff spots. Golden State would be right to respect their superstar’s words but recognize the need to maximize Curry’s remaining years in Golden State and the league.
Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy Jr. and his front office partners are motivated to improve a team that can still compete. They’ve been on a tough slide in recent weeks. While their current roster isn’t elite, it does have some solid pieces around Curry. It could be a matter of adding one or two others to complete everything. Whether LaVine becomes one of those pieces remains to be seen. Nevertheless, LaVine’s addition would help the Warriors, but who they would have to give up is likely what Curry was referring to in his comments about the franchise’s future.
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