Jonah Kubicek from NBA Analysis recently proposed a mock trade that could leave both Warriors and Knicks fans shocked - sending Golden State veteran Draymond Green to New York in exchange for All-Star center Karl-Anthony Towns.
The proposed deal would see the "Warriors" parting ways with Green, Moses Moody, Buddy Hield, and a 2027 first-round pick to acquire Towns. It's a move that might seem far-fetched, but desperate teams often make unexpected decisions after disappointing seasons.
"When teams fail to meet expectations, they sometimes make moves that previously seemed impossible," an unnamed league executive might say about such speculation.
The "Warriors" are clearly looking to maximize the remaining years of Stephen Curry's career, and Towns could potentially provide the offensive firepower they need. The big man averaged 24.4 points, 12.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists with the Knicks this season - not bad for someone who's been criticized for his defensive limitations.
Meanwhile, the "Knicks" just fired coach Tom Thibodeau after their six-game elimination by the Indiana Pacers. Their roster clearly needs adjustments, particularly in terms of defensive capability and bench depth.
Financially, the deal would work by moving Green's remaining two years on his four-year, $100 million contract. But is this really a smart move for Golden State?
Here's the catch - Towns posted just a 0.1 defensive box plus-minus this season. Trading away Green, the anchor of the team's defense, would leave the "Warriors" in terrible shape on that end of the floor. Not to mention the awkwardness of trading for someone Green has publicly feuded with in the past.
By the way, this would mark another chapter in the "Warriors" potentially betraying one of their franchise legends after their treatment of Klay Thompson.
Would the offensive boost from Towns be worth sacrificing the defensive identity that helped win championships? That's the question Golden State's front office would need to answer before even considering such a dramatic move.
