The Golden State Warriors are targeting Kristaps Porzingis as a key addition for their frontcourt in 2024, aiming to address a critical team need identified by head coach Steve Kerr after the 2024-25 season. The Warriors are exploring a high-profile trade with the Boston Celtics to acquire Porzingis, who fits their vision of a versatile big man capable of stretching the floor and protecting the rim.
Golden State Seeks a Stretch Five to Strengthen Frontcourt
Following the latest season, Steve Kerr emphasized the importance of adding a dependable center to allow Draymond Green to return to his natural power forward role. The ideal player for the Warriors would be a “stretch five” who can also serve as a defensive presence on the weak side. Kristaps Porzingis, currently with the Boston Celtics, fits this role perfectly due to his combination of size, shooting, and shot-blocking ability.
Basketball analyst Grant Hughes of Bleacher Report suggested a trade involving several Warriors players—Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Gui Santos—moving to Boston in exchange for Porzingis. An alternative trade package focusing on Jonathan Kuminga, a restricted free agent expected to attract significant offer sheets, has also been proposed, which would require a sign-and-trade maneuver with the Celtics.
Porzingis commands a $30.7 million expiring contract, and Golden State’s payroll flexibility around Kuminga’s projected $25-$30 million offer could facilitate the deal. The trade details under consideration include Boston receiving Kuminga, Santos, and Jackson-Davis, while the Warriors acquire Porzingis.
Longstanding Interest in Kristaps Porzingis
According to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints, Golden State’s interest in Porzingis dates back to before the player joined Boston in 2023. Siegel highlighted Porzingis’ dual ability to shield the rim and stretch the defense offensively as key reasons the Warriors have viewed him as a fitting frontcourt addition.
The Golden State Warriors have long been viewed as a potential destination for Porzingis before he even joined Boston in 2023,
—Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints writer
Siegel also pointed out the urgency for frontcourt production from the Warriors.
It is no secret to anyone that the Warriors will be seeking immediate frontcourt production,
—Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints writer
While the Warriors considered Chicago Bulls center Nikola Vucevic at the trade deadline, they ultimately decided to pursue Jimmy Butler. Porzingis’ contract flexibility makes him an attractive option alongside stars Stephen Curry and Butler, although his health remains a significant concern.
Since he doesn’t carry any long-term financial restraints, Porzingis could fill an immediate gap next to Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler,
—Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints writer
This fit makes sense, but Porzingis’ health is the top concern many teams share at this time.
—Brett Siegel, ClutchPoints writer
Alternative Trade Paths and Frontcourt Moves
If Boston is uninterested in involving Kuminga in a trade, the Warriors may redirect their efforts to other teams seeking to acquire the restricted free agent. The team’s priority is finding a suitable landing spot for Kuminga while securing a beneficial return. One alternative target is Brooklyn Nets wing Cam Johnson, known for his 3-and-D skills and currently under a manageable contract for two more seasons.
Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley outlined a possible sign-and-trade situation where the Warriors could send Kuminga to the Nets in exchange for Johnson, creating value from an asset that may no longer fit Golden State’s long-term plans.
Even if Golden State is less than convinced Kuminga is a long-term fit for the team, it will want to recoup something for the asset,
—Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report writer
Look for the Warriors to work out a sign-and-trade with the Nets that gets him a four-year deal in the $100 million range and delivers the Dubs three-and-D ace Cameron Johnson.
—Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report writer
Buckley emphasized Kuminga’s diminished role in the Warriors’ playoff rotation as a factor likely affecting his willingness to remain with the franchise.
It’s hard to imagine the 22-year-old would willingly sign up for more of this treatment,
—Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report writer
Of course, because he’s a restricted free agent, the decision surrounding his next move won’t entirely be his. He can sign where he pleases—though he’ll feel the same cap squeeze as everyone—but the Warriors will have the option to match any offer sheet.
—Zach Buckley, Bleacher Report writer
Impact and Future Considerations for Golden State
Acquiring Kristaps Porzingis would provide the Warriors with a critical frontcourt piece next to Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler, enhancing both their offensive versatility and defensive rim protection. Porzingis’ ability to stretch defenses with shooting and offer shot-blocking skills would address gaps exposed in recent seasons. However, concerns about his fitness will remain a significant factor for the Warriors in weighing any trade.
Should the Celtics reject involvement of Kuminga, Golden State’s trade options remain flexible, as seen in their interest in Cam Johnson. Finding the right balance between roster fit, salary cap management, and player health will shape the Warriors’ frontcourt strategy moving into 2024 and beyond.