The Golden State Warriors saw their miraculous postseason run come to a disappointing end after a 4-1 series loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The absence of Stephen Curry and the cumulative shortcomings from the rest of the roster made one thing abundantly clear for the franchise: Things needed to change.
Jimmy Butler's arrival triggered the start of a tremendous spell of form for the Warriors, eventually seeing them claim the seventh seed in the West. Although the core of Butler, Curry, and Draymond Green could still be considered competent, it is evident that the team needs new life.
In light of this, Golden State made their intentions clear with regard to the profile of players they would be targeting in the offseason. A priority in this sense has been a wing defender and playmaker, amongst other things, including big men.
With this in mind, recent developments have seen the Warriors emerge as the leaders in the sweepstakes to acquire Denver Nuggets forward Michael Porter Jr. in the offseason. Although there has been no chatter linking the two parties, the Nuggets' sharpshooter has found himself on the trading block after a rather underwhelming series of performances in the postseason.
The Warriors are expected to part ways with some talented young players this summer. This would leave their perimeter depth in a rather desultory state. In this context, the addition of a stretch forward like Porter Jr. could do wonders for their rotation.
Let's take a look at a potential trade proposal for the Warriors to acquire the Nuggets forward.
Proposed Trade Details
Golden State Warriors Receive: Michael Porter Jr., Christian Braun
Denver Nuggets Receive: Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, 2027 first-round pick
A trade of this nature presents much intrigue as it sees some very talented players joining the Warriors. However, is it legitimately beneficial to them, considering their timeline?
Michael Porter Jr. Could Revitalize The Warriors' Offense
The Golden State Warriors may have fallen out of the title race this season, but the team has every intention of plotting their next big move to return to championship contention. In this regard, Michael Porter Jr. could be a major piece of that puzzle.
For a franchise that thrives on perimeter firepower and off-ball movement, Porter Jr. might be the perfect fit. His style of play is tailor-made for Golden State’s motion offense. At 6’10” with a high release and smooth stroke, he’s one of the league’s most dangerous shooters when healthy.
The forward's ability to space the floor opens up the interior for Warriors star Jimmy Butler, who does most of his damage in the midrange and on drives. His presence also becomes a nuisance for defenders on the perimeter as Curry and Buddy Hield simultaneously demand their attention.
The 26-year-old recorded an average of 18.2 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game on shooting splits of 50.4% from the field and 39.5% from beyond the arc. Unfortunately, these numbers took a massive dip in the playoffs, potentially attributed to him playing through a shoulder injury.
Regardless, his impact goes beyond just shooting. Porter Jr. moves well without the ball. Whether it’s curling off screens or slipping into soft zones of a defense, he knows how to position himself for catch-and-shoot opportunities.
Additionally, his length creates an untapped opportunity for the Warriors to cultivate and develop his rebounding and latent defensive potential.
However, acquiring the Nuggets forward wouldn't be without its risks. Porter Jr. has had a history of back injuries that have limited his availability. He also goes through shooting slumps that can stall his offensive rhythm.
While this is a point of concern, when locked in, he’s a 40% three-point shooter with elite scoring instincts, a premium asset for any team aiming to compete.
In addition to the sharpshooter, the Warriors would also acquire a developing talent in Christian Braun. The Nuggets guard has displayed immense potential on both ends of the floor over the last season. Considering his key performances in the playoffs, Braun is an acquisition to look at from the point of view of improving roster depth and strength.
Such a trade going through would undoubtedly turn the Warriors into a guaranteed playoff team in the West. However, this would only be one piece in the overall puzzle.
