Potential NBA Trade: Warriors Eye Bucks’ $93 Million Star
The Golden State Warriors might be on the lookout for a new guard if Klay Thompson leaves in free agency. Bleacher Report’s Allen Stiles has suggested a possible trade where the Warriors acquire Milwaukee Bucks’ star guard Khris Middleton.
The proposed trade involves sending Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, and possibly Brandin Podziemski to Milwaukee in exchange for Middleton. This move would allow the Bucks to reconfigure their roster around Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard.
“If you trade Wiggins and Moody for Khris Middleton, and maybe throw in someone like Podziemski if needed,” Stiles explained during a June 2024 Bleacher Report live stream. “This scenario hinges on whether Klay Thompson stays or not. If Thompson leaves, the Warriors need to look for another guard.”
Middleton, who is under a three-year, $93 million contract, could become a free agent in 2025 if he opts out. The Warriors might hesitate to take on Middleton’s contract due to his recent injury history.
Wiggins, on the other hand, has three years left on his four-year, $109 million contract, with a player option for free agency in 2026.
Khris Middleton as a Possible Replacement for Klay Thompson
If Klay Thompson decides to leave, Middleton could be a viable replacement. However, if Thompson stays, adding Middleton might not be practical given the Warriors’ already crowded wing positions.
Middleton has struggled with injuries recently, missing 27 games last season and 49 in 2022-23. Despite this, he averaged 15.1 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game, shooting 38.1% from three-point range last season.
KLAY THOMPSON
CLUTCH pic.twitter.com/kMQUiCLJr4— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) November 2, 2023
Klay Thompson’s Free Agency Aspirations
Thompson is reportedly seeking a three-year contract in free agency. While he remains a potent scorer, his overall efficiency and defensive capabilities have declined. NBC Sports’ Monte Poole mentioned that Thompson is unlikely to receive a deal comparable to his expiring five-year, $190 million contract but is aiming for a three-year offer.
Thompson’s future with the Warriors remains uncertain, and his decision will significantly impact the team’s strategy moving forward.
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