With the sudden news that Klay Thompson was lost for the 2020-21 season with a torn Achilles, the Golden State Warriors need to find a player or players to compensate as best they can minus one of the game’s best two way players.
Having taken James Wiseman from Memphis with the #2 overall pick, they now need some guard help. Many wanted them to take LaMelo Ball as the news of Thompson’s injury broke right before last night’s draft but they stood pat and took the athletic seven-footer with huge upside. I
In the West the biggest issue is dealing with Anthony Davis and no I’m not saying he can now, but if Davis stays in LA long-term the Wiseman pick could resonate even bigger down the line for the franchise.
For the short term there are some guys the “Dubs” could add to help alleviate the blow of losing Klay Thompson aka “KooKout Klay”.
Warriors have that $17.2M traded player exception from when they dealt Andre Iguodala to the Grizzlies last summer. Reports say they are locked in on OKC guard Kelly Oubre Jr.
Kelly Oubre Jr (Thunder) – A high-level defender who averaged 18 points and 6 rebounds per game last season while shooting a career beat 35% from three. He’s also 6’7. (TPE – Traded Player Exception)
Golden State is nearing a deal with Oklahoma City to acquire Kelly Oubre Jr., sources tells ESPN.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) November 19, 2020
If the Oubre deal falls through for any reason, here are some other options for Golden State.
Avery Bradley (Free Agent) – Not 6’7 like Klay, but a great defender and capable three-point shooter (36%)
JJ Redick (Pelicans) – Reliable shooter and plays hard. Moved well without the ball but struggles defensively. He’d allow them to bring him and another player if they added him due to salary.
(TPE – Traded Player Exception)
Eric Gordon (Rockets) – Solid shooter and physical player. Better defender than given credit for as well. The only issue is that he’d be traded to a bitter rival. (TPE – Trade Player Exception)
Wesley Matthews (Free Agent) – Gritty defender with three-point shooting capabilities. Career 38% shooter from deep.
Justin Holiday (Free Agent) – A former Warrior who was part of the 2015 title team. He’s developed into a 40% shooter from deep and a very solid defender.
I think they’ll trade for Kelly Oubre Jr and use the TPE to soften the blow of losing one half of the “Splash Brothers”. It will cost them though.
Golden State tax bill is currently $66M
The addition of Kelly Oubre would see it increase to $134M
$14.4M of Oubre + $68M in taxes= $82.4M
— Bobby Marks (@BobbyMarks42) November 19, 2020
#PoVMasonSports
