DEAL ACCEPTED: Dallas Mavericks The market for the Warriors’ biggest need just became even more limited……. veiw more

The trade

February 2, 2025: Mavericks agree to a blockbuster with Lakers—Luka Dončić, Maxi Kleber, Markieff Morris are sent to L.A. for Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a future first-round pick
The move instantly reshaped both franchises: Lakers acquire a generational superstar; Mavericks pivot to a defense-driven core featuring Davis .

Why Dallas did it

New owner Miriam Adelson aimed to slash the luxury tax and prioritize defense—though at the cost of offensive continuity
GM Nico Harrison defended the trade by saying, “I believe that defense wins championships”

Immediate reactions

Mavericks seen as the biggest losers of the deadline—aging roster, reduced two-way upside, and a fragile cap situation .
Even Dallas fans voiced frustration, some went as far as calling for a GM change .

Warriors’ Crisis: The Market for a Center Just Shrank

Golden State has been urgently searching for a rim protector to pair with Draymond Green. Their top target? Mavericks’ 6-foot‑10 thunderbolt Daniel Gaffort

But Dallas just reconfigured its priorities:

They instantly need interior defense themselves to support Davis.
Likely removed Gafford from the trade market, shrinking available options.
Other potential Mavericks trade targets—Wiggins, PJ Washington, even Kuminga—now come with steeper price tags .

Result for Golden State:

The window to land a top-tier center has narrowed dramatically.
With Gafford off the market or more expensive, Warriors may have to settle for lesser-known options like PJ Washington or draft picks .
Salary-cap constraints post-Butler acquisition further limit their flexibility

Bigger Picture: Warriors’ Roster Puzzle

Golden State faces mounting pressure:

Center void – No player over 7’0” in rotation; they ranked 15th in defense recently
Thin market – With Dallas setting its own defensive goals, top options are disappearing.
Cap crunch – Salary scope for big-ticket additions minimized by Butler’s $121M extension

GM Mike Dunleavy is left scouting less attractive options: second-rounders, low-cost wings, or waiting for a midseason opportunity .

What’s Next for the Warriors?

Alternative routes: Expect Golden State to explore sign-and-trade packages, or nudge Dallas into spinning off role players.
Draft/develop: Target late-round talents with defensive upside.
Plan B acquisitions: Look at backups like PJ Washington, or swing for veterans like Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski.
Patience: With limited current options, waiting for a midseason dip could be strategic.