Warriors counter Pelicans move
The Golden State Warriors are sitting in a fine position four games ahead of San Antonio for the top spot out west. They have also made it clear that the team is unlikely to be active before the trade deadline. At the very least, Golden State isn’t going to make any calls (more on that here).
All that was before the Pelicans, who might end up as the eighth seed, added DeMarcus Cousins to the mix. This sets up a scenario where a Warriors squad that lacks low-post defense might have to go up against the likes of Cousins and Anthony Davis in the opening round. Talk about upset possibilities there. At the very least, it would be a mismatch in New Orleans’ favor.
Sure JaVale McGee has played well this season. And despite a recent injury, Zaza Pachulia has shown toughness inside. Still, it’s a lot to ask of them to go up against the Pelicans’ new two-headed monster.
Since the Warriors started their run of success, they have not been the type to make a reactionary move. That could change between now and Thursday. Sure there are issues with the salary cap. And Golden State doesn’t boast a pick in the upcoming draft.
However, it does have a few high-upside youngsters in Kevon Looney, Damian Jones and Patrick McCaw who could be used as assets. It won’t be a big trade, but look for the Warriors to be more active than originally anticipated after New Orleans shook up the NBA Sunday evening.