Golden State looking to add a big man to contend for a title, but making a deal work will take some extra effort.
The Golden State Warriors have been looking for a way to shake things up after a choppy 16-15 start this season, and their search for a rim-protecting big man has led them to one of the best at the position.
Haynes Reports Warriors Interest in Davis
NBA insider Chris Haynes reported on the Amazon Prime broadcast that Golden State is doing more than just kicking tires when it comes to Dallas Mavericks star Anthony Davis.
"I was told they're contemplating making a case to acquire Anthony Davis as well," Haynes said. "Dallas was not that fascinated with what Golden State has on its books. And so if the Golden State Warriors did really want to make a true play at Anthony Davis, they would likely have to acquire some more assets or involve another team."
Davis Still Producing When Healthy
The 32-year-old Davis has dealt with injuries throughout his time in Dallas, missing 16 of the Mavericks' 32 games this season.
When he's on the floor, though, he's still one of the most dominant two-way players around.
Through 16 games, the 10-time All-Star is putting up 20.5 points on 52.1 percent shooting along with 10.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.6 blocks per game for the struggling 12-20 Mavericks.
His most recent setback came on Christmas Day against the Warriors when he left with right groin spasms.
What Davis Would Bring to Golden State
Adding Davis to a roster featuring Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green would give the Warriors the defensive anchor they've been lacking.
Davis would take pressure off Green from having to play center full-time while giving Curry a pick-and-roll partner who can finish at the rim.
Butler has been solid in his first full season with Golden State, averaging 19.9 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.7 assists while shooting 52.3 percent from the field.
Pairing him and Curry with Davis could push the Warriors from a .500 team to a legitimate title contender.
What a Mock Trade Might Look Like
Making the salaries work is tricky since Davis is making $54.1 million this year.
Jonathan Kuminga, who has fallen out of Steve Kerr's rotation and becomes trade-eligible on January 15th, would likely be the centerpiece at $22.5 million.
Adding Buddy Hield at $9.2 million gets the Warriors closer but still leaves a gap, which is why Golden State would need a third team or more assets.
For Dallas, the appeal would be younger pieces fitting the timeline of rookie Cooper Flagg as the Mavericks look toward a rebuild.