Warriors GM Mike Dunleavy is searching for a star player, in a move that could change the course of the Warriors season.
The Golden State Warriors have built a reputation for making bold moves, and with the NBA trade deadline looming on February 6, the franchise appears poised for another significant shake-up.
As reported by Shams Charania of ESPN, Warriors General Manager Mike Dunleavy is leading the charge in the search for a star player. The goal is to strengthen the roster by adding a high-impact talent who can seamlessly complement the team’s iconic duo—Stephen Curry and Draymond Green. With time running out before the deadline, the Warriors seem determined to make a move that could redefine their season.
According to Shams Charania on NBA Today, “The Warriors are actively hunting for a star—a playmaker and a scorer to pair alongside Stephen Curry. Ideally another good 3 point shooter, something that has been lacking ever since Klay Thmopson got his major injury.”
Reports suggest the team has already explored high-profile targets like Lauri Markkanen from the Utah Jazz and Paul George of the Los Angeles Clippers (later moved to Philadelphia). However, negotiations for both players didn’t come to fruition, leaving Golden State still in pursuit of the right fit to enhance their roster.
Although the Warriors have missed out on some high-profile targets, their offseason acquisitions have added valuable depth to the team. Players like Buddy Hield, Kyle Anderson, De’Anthony Melton, and Lindy Waters have each made meaningful contributions during the first 21 games of the 2024-25 season.
Can Jonathan Kuminga be the missing piece?
While the Warriors continue to explore external options, their next big star might already be on the roster. Jonathan Kuminga, the No. 7 overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, is showing signs of reaching his potential.
The 22-year-old forward delivered a career-high 33 points in a 99-93 victory over the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, sparking conversations about whether he could emerge as the third star Golden State has been searching for.
Shams Charania addressed the situation, saying, “The debate for the Warriors and teams observing them is whether they’ll find that star externally or if it’s already in-house with a player like Jonathan Kuminga.”
Warriors officials have closely monitored Kuminga’s growth, particularly his dynamic with head coach Steve Kerr. Charania pointed out that Kuminga’s production tends to rise when given a bigger role, suggesting he may be ready to step up.
