Blockbuster deals are never easy, and it makes some sense for Golden State to see what it has before any rash decisions are made. But in whiffing on PG and Markkanen, the Warriors kept their powder dry. If another star becomes available at a price that makes sense for everyone involved (Jimmy Butler? Brandon Ingram? Julius Randle?), they can craft a compelling offer and, one last time, become a heavyweight contender once again. Maybe it turns out that they don’t need a star. Maybe they’re OK with sacrificing future assets for another intriguing veteran (think Bruce Brown Jr., Cameron Johnson, Dorian Finney-Smith, Robert Williams III, or Kyle Kuzma). -via The Ringer / September 5, 2024
