In one of the more shocking trades so far this offseason, the Golden State Warriors are reportedly finalizing a blockbuster trade that would see them ship off one of their young stars for future Hall-of-Famer Chris Paul.
One of the biggest stories in the NBA over the last week was the Washingtons Wizards finally making the bold decision to trade team great Bradley Beal. In shipping off the three-time All-Star to the Phoenix Suns last week, the Wizards landed a boatload of second-round draft picks and NBA legend Chris Paul.
Related: NBA trade tracker – NBA trades today with grades and analysis
Following the deal, all indications were that Washington would look to find the 12-time All-Star a new home as he looks to finally win his first NBA title with limited tread left on the tire that is his NBA career. Well, on Wednesday it looks like the Washington Wizards found a place to send Paul, and it is none other than the league’s current dynasty team, the Golden State Warriors.
On Thursday afternoon, The Athletic’s NBA insider Shams Charania broke the news that “Washington and Golden State are close on a trade sending Chris Paul to the Warriors for Jordan Poole.” Following Charania’s report, ESPN NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski added that the Golden State Warriors are also sending out a 2030 protected first-round, and a 2027 second-rounder.
Charania furthered the news when he claimed a second-round pick on Thursday and reserve Ryan Rollins is also going to Washington.
Reasons behind Golden State Warriors’ shocking trade with Washington Wizards
The Golden State Warriors decision to trade for Chris Paul likely has two purposes. One, it brings a legendary veteran and leader that head coach Steve Kerr likely felt they lacked in trying to repeat as champions in 2023. However, more than that the deal saves them a ton of money by moving Jordan Poole’s contract.
- Warriors receive: Chris Paul
- Wizards receive: Jordan Poole, Ryan Rollins, 2022 second-rounder pick, 2027 second-rounder, 2030 protected first-rounder
The Warriors were headed for several years of gaudy payroll taxes by maintaining the team they currently had. Paul’s contract is guaranteed for just one more season, so long-term this likely should give them the room they need to re-sign Draymond Green while probably saving some money in the years ahead.
For the Washington Wizards, it is another win-win situation following the Kristaps Porzingis trade Wednesday. While pricey, they get a young player with massive offensive upside for a well-aged veteran they were planning to trade or release anyway. Furthermore, they get a bunch more picks they could hold on to or use in potential trades in the future.